NEW PLANT PRODUCTS - Agrifutures Australia€¦ · Dr. Ben Lethbridge (08) 8383 6181 Australian Quandong Industry Association 3 CLC-1A Cultivation and sustainable wild harvest of

RIRDC Completed Projects in 2002-2003 and

Research in Progress as at June 2003

Sub-Program 1.1

NEW PLANT PRODUCTS

September 2003 RIRDC Publication No 03/058

ii

© 2003 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. All rights reserved. ISBN 0 642 58625 X ISSN 1440 6845 "RIRDC Completed Projects in 2002-03 and Research in Progress as at June 2003 - 1.1 New Plant Products" Publication No 03/058 The views expressed and the conclusions reached in this publication are those of the author and not necessarily those of persons consulted. RIRDC shall not be responsible in any way whatsoever to any person who relies in whole or in part on the contents of this report. This publication is copyright. However, RIRDC encourages wide dissemination of its research, providing the Corporation is clearly acknowledged. For any other enquiries concerning reproduction, contact the Publications Manager on phone 02 6272 3186. RIRDC New Plant Products Research Manager Mr Max Bourke RIRDC Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: 02 6247 4630 Fax: 02 6247 4051 Email: [email protected] RIRDC Publications Manager Cecile Ferguson Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: 02 6272 3186 Fax: 02 6272 5877 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.rirdc.gov.au

Published in September 2003 Printed on environmentally friendly paper by Canprint

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Foreword This year RIRDC has produced Research in Progress, June '03, which contains short summaries of continuing projects as well as those that were completed during 2002-2003 for all of the Corporation’s 19 program areas. The complete report on all the programs is only available in electronic format on our website at http://www.rirdc.gov.au The following report is a hardcopy extract covering Sub-Program 1.1. It contains all entries from continuing and completed New Plant Products research projects funded by RIRDC. This program aims to facilitate the development of new industries based on plants or plant products that have commercial potential for Australia. This report is the newest addition to our extensive catalogue of over 900 research reports, videos and CD-Roms of projects supported by RIRDC. Please contact us for the latest publications catalogue or view it on our website: • downloads at www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/Index.htm • purchases at www.rirdc.gov.au/eshop Simon Hearn Managing Director Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

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Contents

1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS - COMPLETED PROJECTS

PROJECT

NO. PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE

No

Native Foods ANS-1A Implement an internet-based

communication forum for the native foods industry

Mr. Anthony Hele 0428 863 252 Australian Native Crop Development Services

1

ANS-2A Extension program for researchers for the native foods industry

Mr. Anthony Hele 0428 863 252 Australian Native Crop Development Services

2

AQI-1A Genetic and agronomic improvement of quandong

Dr. Ben Lethbridge (08) 8383 6181 Australian Quandong Industry Association

3

CLC-1A Cultivation and sustainable wild harvest of bushfoods by Aboriginal communities in central Australia

Mr. Geoff Miers (08) 8952 3202 Central Land Council

4

UM-52A The domestication and improvement of Kunzea pomifera (F.Muell.), muntries

Mr. Tony Page (03) 9250 6873 University of Melbourne 5

Culinary Herbs, Spices and Beverages DPH-1A Developing irrigation strategies for coffee

under sub tropical conditions Mr. David Peasley (02) 6677 7174 David Peasley Horticultural

Services 6

JCP-1A Agricultural chemical guidelines for export herbs

Mrs. Jane Parker (07) 5447 0024 JC Parker Consulting 7

SRH-1A Investigation of the issues affecting the development of the Australian Culinary Herb Growers Association and its capacity to service the needs of the herb industry

Dr. Peter Scholefield (08) 8373 2488 Scholefield Robinson Horticultural Services Pty Ltd

8

Extractive and Fibre Crops OAP-1A Olive variety assessment for subtropical

summer rainfall regions Mr. Greg O'Sullivan (07) 5466 1333 Olives Australia Pty Ltd 9

SAR-23A National Olive Variety Assessment Project (NOVA)

Ms. Susan Sweeney (08) 8303 9673 South Australian Research and Development Institute

11

UWA-47A New high quality oil seed crops for temperate and tropical Australia

Dr. Clive Francis (08) 9380 1878 University of Western Australia 13

UWA-59A Establish protocols and guidelines for table olive processing in Australia

Prof. Stanley Kailis (08) 9380 1644 University of Western Australia 14

Fruit, Vegetables and Nuts CSP-7A Improved post-harvest handling of lychee Dr. Cameron McConchie (07) 3214 2248 CSIRO Plant Industry 19 DAQ-249A Developing a postharvest handling and

storage strategy for longan Dr. James Drinnan (07) 4048 4600 Department of Primary

Industries (Qld) 20

DAQ-306A Exotic crop review workshop, South Johnstone, February 2003

Mr. Pedro O'Connor (07) 4064 1102 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

21

US-74A A field evaluation of the productivity of hazelnut varieties

Mr. Basil Baldwin (02) 6360 5562 University of Sydney 22

Grains and Pulses DAV-183A Domestic and export market expansion of

quality buckwheat Mr. Chris Bluett (03) 5333 6784 Department of Primary

Industries (Vic) 23

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1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS – RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

PROJECT NO.

PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE No

Native Foods AQI-2A Do our own quandong production

research (DOOR) feasibility study Dr. Ben Lethbridge (08) 8383 6181 Australian Quandong Industry

Association 24

CSL-11A Evaluating performance of cultivated bushfood plants in South Australian environments

Dr. Maarten Ryder (08) 8303 8684 CSIRO Land and Water 25

CSL-20A Soil biological constraints and benefits to quandong and other native food production

Dr. Maarten Ryder (08) 8303 8534 CSIRO Land and Water 26

DAQ-295A Effects of post harvest handling, storage and processing on functional ingredients in native plant foods

Mrs. Janette McDonald (07) 3406 8643 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

27

UCS-29A Functional properties of Australian bushfoods

Dr. Jian Zhao (02) 6933 2968 Charles Sturt University 28

Culinary Herbs, Spices and Beverages DAQ-301A Northern Australian cocoa development

(Stage 2) Mr. Craig Lemin (07) 4064 1170 Department of Primary

Industries (Qld)

29

US-116A Condiment paprika: breeding, processing and commercialisation (Stage 2)

Prof. Peter Sharp (02) 9351 8803 University of Sydney 31

Extractive and Fibre Crops CWT-2A Processing and market assessment for

cottonised fibre from linseed stalks Dr. Peter Lamb (03) 5246 4000 CSIRO Textile and Fibre

Technology 32

DAN-197A Olive harvesting project - harvest timing for optimal olive oil quality

Dr. Rod Mailer (02) 6938 1818 NSW Department of Agriculture 33

DAN-206A Evaluation of jojoba germplasm in different environments

Mr. Peter Milthorpe (02) 6895 1016 NSW Department of Agriculture 34

DAQ-286A Evaluation of guar cultivars in central and southern Queensland

Mr. Colin Douglas (07) 4992 9112 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

35

DAQ-292A Evaluation of hemp and kenaf breeding lines in tropical and sub-tropical environments

Dr. Peter Lawrence (07) 4992 9135 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

36

DEB-2A Evaluating olive water requirements from seedling to pre-fruit bearing

Mr. James De Barro (08) 8756 2777 De Barro Agricultural Consulting

37

SAR-47A National Olive Variety Assessment Project (NOVA) - Stage 2

Ms. Susan Sweeney (08) 8303 9673 Department of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries (SA)

38

UA-54A Wild olive selection for quality oil production

Prof. Margaret Sedgley (08) 8303 7242 University of Adelaide 39

UCQ-17A Laying the groundwork for a new rural industry - Stevia rebaudiana

Prof. David Midmore (07) 4930 9770 Central Queensland University 40

UCS-27A Diagnosing diseases affecting mature jojoba plantations and developing strategies to reduce their effect on commercial production of jojoba seeds

Dr. Gavin Ash (02) 6933 2543 Charles Sturt University 41

UCS-32A Production of bioactive phenols from olive processing waste streams

Dr. Paul Prenzler (02) 6933 2540 Charles Sturt University 42

UCS-33A Quality enhancement of Australian extra-virgin olive oils

Dr. Paul Prenzler (02) 6933 2540 Charles Sturt University 43

UQ-94A Evaluating new guayule varieties for low-allergenic rubber production

Dr. Doug George (07) 5460 1308 University of Queensland 44

UWA-74A New oilseed options for Australian farmers and industry

Dr. Clive Francis (08) 9380 1878 University of Western Australia 45

UWS-17A Sustainable pest and disease management in Australian olive production

A/Prof. Robert Spooner-Hart

(02) 4570 1429 University of Western Sydney 46

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PROJECT

NO. PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE

No

Fruit, Vegetables and Nuts CAU-1A Investigation into commercial systems for

production of capers in Australia Mr. Jonathon Trewartha (08) 9485 0090 The Australian Caper Company 48

DAQ-274A Rambutan IPM Development Phase1: Insect Monitoring/Insecticide screening

Mr. David Astridge (07) 4064 1160 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

49

DAQ-288A Nutrition and phenology survey of durian and mangosteen orchards in north Queensland

Mr. Yan Diczbalis (07) 4064 1128 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

50

DAQ-289A Floral manipulation and canopy management in rambutan and longan

Mr. Yan Diczbalis (07) 4064 1128 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

51

DNT-24A Integrated management of Phytophthora diseases of durian

Mr. Chris Wicks (08) 8973 9769 Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT)

52

PTT-3A Increasing the productivity of truffieres in Tasmania

Dr. Daryl Brown (03) 6224 1207 Perigord Truffles of Tasmania 53

TMB-1A Myrtus ugni berries: market research Mr. John Bailey (03) 6223 5804 Tas Myrtus Berries Pty Ltd 54

Grains and Pulses UWA-73A Investigation into legumes with

pharmaceutical and aquaculture potential Dr. Shao Fang Wang (08) 9222 3040 University of Western Australia 55

Miscellaneous UQ-104A

Second Australian New Crops Conference Dr. Rob Fletcher (07) 5460 1311 The University of Queensland 56

UT-25A Leguminous browse species as forage plants for temperate environments

Dr. Peter Lane (03) 6226 2621 University of Tasmania 57

New Plant Products Research Report 2003 1

NEW PLANT PRODUCTS COMPLETED PROJECTS

NATIVE FOODS

Project Title Implement an internet-based communication forum for the native foods industry

RIRDC Project No.:

ANS-1A

Researcher: Mr. Anthony E. Hele Organisation: Australian Native Crop Development Services

PO Box 13 LOWANNA NSW 2250

Phone: 0428 863 252 Fax: - Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To improve information flows within the native foods industry and develop internally-

generated consensus on the need, form, structure, role and formation of an industry-wide body by 2003, using internet-based information and discussion forums.

Background This web site was completed and has been on-line for over a year. It now requires an

industry based “host” to take over management of the site and to update it. RIRDC is prepared to pass on the site to such a body.


Project Title Extension program for researchers for the native food industry RIRDC Project No.:

ANS-2A

Researcher: Mr. Anthony E. Hele Organisation: Australian Native Crop Development Services

PO Box 13 LOWANNA NSW 2250

Phone: 0428 863 252 Fax: - Email: [email protected] Objectives

• Increase the quality of native food research proposals and their outcomes.

Background Concern has been expressed by the RIRDC Native Food Industry R&D Advisory Group over the quality of many recent funding proposals. Concerns have included a lack of understanding of the current commercial and technical situation in native foods, the crops of interest, previous work and appropriate industry partners.

Research To address these concerns, an extension program for researchers was conducted, consisting of the production of a native foods bibliography and presentations at the 5th Australian Horticultural Conference on the industry and its research needs and opportunities. During the conference, several informal discussion and product examination sessions were also conducted with delegates.

Outcomes Researchers generally had a limited knowledge of the current status of the native food industry and perceived it as being small-scale, both in terms of production and R&D expenditure, and not being undertaken with, or focussed on, conventional horticultural production technologies. These features were perceived to be a deterrent to the involvement of mainstream researchers or research agencies. Researchers had little knowledge of the research needs of individual native food species and considered the current industry R&D plan provided only general guidance as to requirements and priorities. After examining information on some crops they tended to consider that, as a general rule, species which had a relatively short establishment to harvest timeframes would be more amenable to plant and production technology improvements from research than longer-period woody perennial species.

Implications The industry should consider the need to further market the industry to the R&D community. In particular, developing and communicating information on industry ‘success stories’, both in terms of larger-scale commercial production and research projects, could help lift industry credibility and the level of research interest and activity. The industry should also consider the need to examine the current ‘core species’ of interest to determine, at least in terms of production technology research, which crops are likely to give an adequate return on R&D investment within a reasonable timeframe. To provide better guidance to researchers, they should also consider examining and detailing specific research needs and priorities for each individual crop, rather than the current approach of generic R&D priorities.

Publication Researchers' extension program for the native foods industry, RIRDC Research Report No. 03/013.


Project Title Genetic and agronomic improvement of quandong RIRDC Project No.:

AQI-1A

Researcher: Dr. Ben Lethbridge and Dr. Barbara Randell Organisation: Australian Quandong Industry Association

62 Grants Gully Rd. CLARENDON SA 5157

Phone: (08) 8383 6181 Fax: (08) 8383 6181 Email: [email protected] Objectives

1. It is hoped that a feasibility study of polyploidy in quandong will lead to the production

of self fertile, true breeding and heavy cropping trees to improve fruit set, seedling trees for new orchards and grower returns respectively.

2. Integrated wattle and quandong orchards- to determine which arid land bushfood acacia species would make appropriate hosts in an orchard situation.

Background 1. Some arid zone plants exhibit the genetic character of polyploidy. This may occur in

quandongs. Polyploid plants potentially offer many advantages over diploid plants. 2. The sandalwood industry is making significant progress using acacias species as host

plants with the potential for timber products from both species. Quandong and acacia species offers the same potential to the native food industry.

Research 1. Macroscopic and Microscopic evidence from 50 herbarium specimens. (stomate cell,

pollen grain, leaf dimensions etc.)Analysis of results for discontinuous distribution of data

2. At the Australian Arid land Botanic Gardens at Pt. Augusta, South Australia is set up an irrigated orchard of eight species of acacia which are direct seeded with germinated quandongs. Measurement of growth parameters for acacia and santalum with statistical analysis of data.

Outcomes 1. No evidence for polyploidy. Some evidence for pollen sterility in wild populations.

2. Best growth of quandongs next to Acacia victoriae. Direct seeding of quandong next to dripper fed acacia plant is a robust, simple and efficient method.

Implications 1. Standard breeding techniques are recommended for quandong variety improvement.

2. Acacia victoriae/quandong pairings may have a niche position in salinity remediation technology.

Publications 1. Randell B. (2000) Detecting polyploidy in erbarium specimens of quandong (Santalum

acuminatum (R.Br.) A. DC.) Jounal of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens 19:75-81 2. Lethbridge B. (2003) Progress report: Integrated acacia and quandong orchards.

Sandalwood Research Newsletter February 2003


Project Title Cultivation and sustainable wildharvest of bushfoods by Aboriginal communities in central Australia

RIRDC Project No.

CLC-1A

Researcher: Mr. Geoff Miers Organisation: Central Land Council

Centralian College PO Box 795 ALICE SPRINGS NT 0871


• The general objective was to increase opportunities for Aboriginal communities in

Central Australia to benefit from involvement in bushfoods industries effective and reliable systems for cultivating selected bushfood species and harvesting, handling, transporting and storing their produce.

• Help ensure long-term sustainability of bushfood enterprises in Central Australia by investigating social, economic and ecological sustainability of cultivation and wild harvest of bushfood species and developing protocols for monitoring these factors.

Background In light of the increased interest in Australian native foods, the extensive use of bush foods

by Aboriginal peoples in Central Australia and the need for Aboriginal peoples to develop options for enterprise on their landholdings, Aboriginal people are keen to be involved in developing commercial potential from several native food species.

Research The research plan was essentially two-fold. It involved collecting germplasm and raising seedlings to plant out in replicated plots at Pantharrpilenhe (an Aboriginal excision 130 kilometres North-east of Alice Springs) and to experiment with a range of cultivation and management techniques best suited to an arid environment. Secondly, field observations were undertaken on a range of native food species found on Pantharrpilenhe with all data collected being correlated to develop plant profiles on these species. The information correlated relates to the potential opportunities for Wild Harvesting native food species.

Outcomes A one hectare plot was established with a range of 15 native food species being trialed. Several different soil, fertilising, watering treatments and support techniques were utilised. These included drip irrigation, water harvesting and cultivation of species on natural stands. Results from the trial are to be incorporated into developing a model for the development of native food enterprises on Aboriginal communities. Plant profiles have been developed on 21 native food species with a particular but not exclusive focus on Wild Harvesting. A near absence of rainfall over the past twelve has limited full potential to gather all necessary data on all species.

Implications Specialised cultivation techniques suitable for an arid zone combined with more traditional horticultural practices offer encouraging opportunities for the development of the native foods industry on Aboriginal communities in Central Australia. In light of the fact the trails have been undertaken for less than 12 months greater research is required to accurately assess the impact of various management techniques and to positively assess full yield potential.

Publications Cultivation and sustainable wild harvest of bushfoods by Aboriginal communities in central Australia, RIRDC Research Report (in press)


Project Title The domestication and improvement of Kunzea pomifera (muntries)

RIRDC Project No.:

UM-52A

Researcher: Mr. Tony Page Organisation: The University of Melbourne

Institute of Land and Food Resources, Burnley College 500 Yarra Boulevard, RICHMOND VIC 3121


• To evaluate the propagation of, the morphological and genetic variation in, and

reproductive biology of K.pomifera, for its domestication and improvement for commercial horticulture

Background Kunzea pomifera (muntries) is a prostrate Australian native shrub species that produces

edible berries that were highly valued by aboriginal peoples and are now considered to have commercial potential. The crop is currently grown commercially in Victoria and South Australia, on a somewhat limited scale, for both the fresh and processed fruit markets. Further development of muntries as a commercial horticultural crop requires improvements in both the level and consistency of fruit quality and yield.

Research Conditions favourable for propagation of the species by cuttings, and for grafting K.pomifera on to the species K.ambigua and K.ericoides to confer upright plant habit, were identified. Leaf morphological and molecular (RAPD) variation within and between three natural populations of K.pomifera have been examined. The level of viability for both fresh and stored pollen was determined by both in vitro and in vivo methods. The onset and duration of stigma receptivity was determined to find the optimal timing for artificial pollination. Levels of self-incompatibility, intraspecific and interspecific cross-compatibility with K.ambigua and K.ericoides were established. An ideal cultivated form of K.pomifera, or ideotype, has been proposed which includes a combination of plant characters expected to contribute, to the efficient production of muntries for both high yield and high quality.

Outcomes Based on the high levels of morphological and molecular variation identified in K.pomifera, and the techniques developed for its routine propagation and breeding to exploit such variation, the proposed ideotype appears achievable for the improvement of the species for commercial production of muntries for high yield and consistent quality for the marketplace.

Implications This study has identified the potential for domesticating K.pomifera for commercial production of muntries with the potential to substantially improve its consumer acceptability and provide a new product in the berry fruit market both in Australia and overseas.

Publications Page, T., Will, J., Moore, G., and Halloran, G.M. (2002). Leaf morphological variation in Kunzea pomifera (Muntries) F.Muell. Proceedings of the 12th Australasian Plant Breeding Conference, p.234-236 Australasian Plant Breeding Association Ltd.

Page, T., Moore, G., Will, J., and Halloran, G.M. (2002). Domestication and Improvement of Kunzea pomifera (F.Muell) Muntries. Combined Proceedings of the International Plant Propagators Society 52, In press.

Page, T. (2000). Grafting in the cultivation of Kunzea pomifera (F.Muell) Muntries. Combined Proceedings of the International Plant Propagators Society 50, 109-114.

Page, T. (1998). Australian Native Food Assessment. Honours Thesis, University of Melbourne: Melbourne.


CULINARY HERBS, SPICES AND BEVERAGES

Project Title Developing irrigation strategies for coffee under sub-tropical conditions

RIRDC Project No.:

DPH-1A

Researchers: David Peasley and Chris Rolfe Organisations: David Peasley Horticultural Services & NSW Agriculture

PO Box 542 MURWILLUMBAH NSW 2484


• Develop a best management system for coffee irrigation to achieve quality production

with minimum environmental impact by investigating the relationship between water and the phenological cycle.

• Develop design criteria for irrigation and storage systems to increase the viability of coffee in sub-tropical Australia as an export and import replacement industry with limited available water resources.

Background Consistent high yields and high bean quality are essential to the viability of the coffee

industry in Australia. Rainfall variability and distribution make irrigation essential to producing this quality coffee consistently. Current suitable coffee growing areas are located in environmentally sensitive areas and the future of the industry will be determined by its low impact on this environment by using water efficiently.

Research Two sites on commercial coffee plantations were used with different climates and soil types. Plots were drip irrigated, scheduled by EnviroSCAN® probes and automatic weather stations. Irrigation, flowering, yield, quality assessment and weather data was collected to compare treatments and determine water requirements, irrigation system design criteria and management techniques.

Outcomes Yield response to irrigation provided a quick return on capital invested in irrigation equipment and water storages. Bean size and cupping quality are marginally improved under irrigation. Irrigation systems should be capable of applying 200 – 230 mm/month to the irrigation area and storages should have a capacity of between 1.2 and 4.1 ML/ha depending on irrigation strategy used. Single row driplines using 1.6 or 2.3 litre/hour discharge spaced to give a continuous wetted strip down the rows are sufficient to meet plant water requirements providing soil moisture measuring devices are installed to schedule the irrigation. Well designed and managed drip irrigation and fertigation system can generate over $10,000 per megalitre of water used (for Dry Green Bean) which compares well with many irrigated crops in Australia.

Implications It is important that the industry use soil moisture measuring devices and establish the best irrigation management practices to maintain consistent quality that will sustain markets for this specialty product at a return that will provide stability to the industry. Flowering cannot be manipulated with irrigation in the sub-tropics.

Publications NSW Agriculture 2003. ‘Best management guidelines of irrigation of coffee in the sub-tropics’ is currently under production.

RIRDC Research Report ‘Developing irrigation strategies for coffee under sub-tropical conditions’ (in press)


Project Title Agricultural chemical guidelines for export herbs RIRDC Project No.:

JCP-1A

Researcher: JC Parker Consulting 23 Cherry Lane BELLI PARK QLD 4562


• To define a list of pesticides and their maximum residue limits (mrl’s) suitable for a

range of herb and spice crops which will allow Australian growers to become export ready to 35 countries within Asia, Europe, North America, Middle East and Pacific.

Background The increasing movement of grower companies, engaged in broad acre herb production,

into the export market has left herb producers and the companies they supply, exposed to the risk of supply failure due to considerable risk from pest/disease wipeout. Because of their minor crop nature, the majority of herbs and spices have no international guidelines (Codex Alimentarius) in place to govern the use of agricultural chemicals (parsley is the exception), and recommended MRLs differ between countries and states.

Research A contact list was established for all 35 countries which previous market research had identified as relevant to Australian producers. Liaison with these contacts then identified the chemical legislation concerning herbs for each country/state. This information was then collated and a list of chemicals suitable for use on herbs/spices drawn up. This list was then compared with existing Australian mrl’s. Using the information from this list, the major stakeholders were then consulted as to their requirements, and discussion held with Australian Codex and FSANZ representatives re the best next step for Australian producers.

Outcomes There was little correlation between overseas and Australian MRL legislation for herbs/spices, but results were useful in that a list of chemicals suitable for international use has been drawn up. Australian herb/spice growers are therefore presently required to hold ’temporary import tolerance permits’ for their export destination. However temporary import tolerance permits require the same level of data as are required to establish a new chemical in the market place. Existing Australian permits for the use of agricultural chemicals on herbs/spices are mainly temporary and do not have the rigour to establish international import permit tolerances, due to lack of Australian in-field data (parsley is the exception). The present permits have been mainly extrapolated from overseas work, and not tested rigorously under Australian conditions.

Implications Australian producers engaged in export are required to meet the limits/import tolerances of destination countries. The chemicals recommended as suitable for international use in this study, will not be available for use until 1) Rigorous testing in Australian conditions, under international guidelines, has been

carried out. 2) AVMRA minor permits are made available. 3) Destination country ‘temporary import tolerance’ documents are obtained. Until these steps are carried out growers using agricultural chemicals on export herbs/spices run the risk of violating importing countries residue tolerances, and putting fellow exporters at risk.


Project Title Investigation of the issues affecting the development of the Australian Culinary Herb Growers Association and its capacity to service the needs of the herb industry

RIRDC Project No.:

SRH-1A

Researcher: Dr. Peter Scholefield Organisation: Scholefield Robinson Horticultural Services Pty Ltd Phone: (08) 8373 2488 Fax: (08) 8373 2442 Email: [email protected] Objectives

• Prepare a brief background paper on the issues facing the herb industry. • Canvass comments/opinions on whether the industry should "stand alone" or become

part of the closely related vegetable industry via AusVeg and incorporate them in the background paper.

• Circulate the background paper to a small group selected by RIRDC/HAL/ACHGA/AusVeg etc.

• Facilitate a meeting to develop an agreed structure and peak industry body to guide the development of the industry.

• At a separate meeting, ask NRA and CPA to provide an update on the situation with regard to MRLs for herbs.

Implications This project was aimed at a presentation to the Native Foods, Herbs and Essential Oils

Conference held in Lismore, NSW in August 2003. That presentation will be made available on the RIRDC web site.


EXTRACTIVE AND FIBRE CROPS

Project Title Olive variety assessment for subtropical summer rainfall regions

RIRDC Project No.:

OAP-1A

Researcher: Greg O’Sullivan Organisation: Olives Australia

16 McGarva Road GRANTHAM QLD 4347


• To deliver information to the Australian olive industry that will allow producers to

make informed varietal selections for future plantings into Australia's subtropical summer rainfall areas; through the provision of comparative physiological information on the performance of sixty olive varieties in warm winter, summer rainfall conditions.

Background South-east Queensland has a subtropical environment of predominantly summer rainfall

and relatively warm winters. Olive plantings have been expanding in this region, with limited knowledge of the adaptability of the available germplasm to the area or the prevailing climatic conditions.

Research This three year project evaluated the performance of sixty olive varieties in a warm winter summer rainfall environment in south-east Queensland with the aim of identifying varieties suitable for future plantings into similar climatic regions.

Outcomes After three years, an early start to bearing and relatively high productivity was observed in ten varieties viz. 'Tiny Kalamata', 'Arbequina', 'Big Spanish', 'Belle of Spain', 'Del Morocco', 'Special Koroneiki', 'I-77', 'Arecuzzo', 'Rosciola' and 'Oblonga'. The majority of the remaining varieties have expressed satisfactory tree growth but little fruit set. Six of the bearing varieties, 'Tiny Kalamata', 'Arbequina', 'Big Spanish', 'Belle of Spain' 'Del Morocco' and '1-77' produced fruit with a high oil content (>20%). The average yields of these varieties were also relatively high ranging from 10 to 18 kg between varieties in their third year after planting. At this stage of the trial the ten varieties showing the highest rate of vegetative growth were; 'Tiny Kalamata', 'Lecqure', 'Koroneiki', 'No.14', Frantoio'/'Paragon', 'Mediterranean', 'Correggiola', 'Pecholine', 'Helena' and 'Fantago'. Preliminary oil extraction results indicate that high fruit moisture at the time of processing is problematic and can affect commercial oil extraction. The propensity to accumulate fruit moisture was found to vary between varieties. These findings highlight the importance of reducing fruit moisture as a means of improving olive oil extraction and suggest that pre and post-harvest technologies will need to be developed to improve olive oil extraction from fruit produced in this environment. Field observations and DNA analyses have suggested that at least two of the obscurely named varieties in the trial are important commercial varieties that have been at some point in the past erroneously named. These are, 'Big Spanish' and 'Tiny Kalamata' which are identical to 'Arbequina' and 'Koroneiki' respectively.

Implications This initial research has identified several early bearing, high yielding varieties with adaptability to the prevailing climate. It also provides important base line information for future comparisons. Ongoing research is now required to determine the mature fruiting capabilities and long term performance of the trees.


Publications O’Sullivan, G.J. and Fletcher R. J. Preliminary olive variety assessment at a subtropical summer rainfall location in south-east Queensland. Adv. Hort. Sci. In Press.

Olive variety assessment for subtropical summer rainfall regions, RIRDC Research Report No. 03/021, 2003.


Project Title National Olive Variety Assessment Project (NOVA) RIRDC Project No.:

SAR-23A

Researcher: Ms. Susan Sweeney Organisation: Primary Industries and Resources South Australia

Plant Research Centre GPO Box 397 ADELAIDE SA 5001


• The National Olive Variety Assessment (NOVA) project has been established to

resolve the confusion in olive variety identity as well as to evaluate the performance of all known commercial olive varieties in Australia and how some of them perform in different climatic regions of Australia.

Background There is enormous potential for olive oil and table olive production in Australia. One of

the major issues for growers to consider is choice of olive variety. There is very little scientific performance data for any olive varieties grown under the wide range of Australian conditions and the industry relies on overseas information. Another major problem is that of ensuring the correct varietal identity of a particular tree.

Research There are two major components to the NOVA project: 1. The National Olive Collection established at the University of Adelaide’s Roseworthy

Campus. One hundred olive accessions (87 of these accessions were provisionally regarded as different olive varieties) were established in a replicated trial. The DNA fingerprints of these accessions were compared, using randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), to those of a number of cultivars obtained from international collections. Growth measurements were taken of all accessions. Fruit characteristics and oil composition was also evaluated for those accessions that produced fruit

2. The commercial scale evaluation of olive varieties on grower properties across

Australia. Samples of olive fruit from different varieties were taken from various locations around Australia and determinations were made on fruit characteristics and oil composition.

Outcomes The DNA of a number of well known commercial varieties planted at Roseworthy

matched with the correct international standard. However, a total of 87 uniquely named accessions in the NOVA collection resulted in only 53 different genotypes indicating there is confusion with correct varietal identification in Australia. Differences in oil composition and yield and fruit characteristics and yield were found in different olive varieties at Roseworthy and from different areas of Australia. Oleic acid is a favourable fatty acid for olive oil quality and higher levels of oleic acid were found in fruit samples from southern latitudes of Australia than from more northerly latitudes.

Implications The large number of synonyms in the National Collection has implications for pollination efficacy in Australian olive groves and confusion for variety selection and labelling of varietal oils and table fruit. Some varieties that naturally have high water content may not be suitable for oil production in climates with high rainfall preceding and/or during the harvest period. Some Australian olive oils may contain higher than acceptable limits of linolenic acid.

Publications Sweeney S, Butler K, Conlan D, Correll R, Jones G, McClure P, Taylor R (In Press). A survey of selected oil composition and fruit characteristics in different olive varieties


across Australia. Advances in Horticultural Sciences Guerin JR, Sweeney SM, Collins GC, Sedgley M (2002) The Development of a Genetic

Database to Identify Olive (Olea europaea L.) Cultivars. Journal of American Society for Horticultural Science 127(6), 977-983.

Sweeney S (2002) National Olive Variety Assessment Project Update. The Olive Press Summer, 14-25.

Sweeney S (2002) National Olive Variety Assessment Project. National Olive Industry Conference, Adelaide, October 11-12

RIRDC Research Report No. 03/054 ‘National Olive Variety Assessment Project (NOVA)’


Project Title New high quality oilseeds for temperate and tropical Australia RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-47A

Researcher: Clive Francis and Margaret Campbell Organisation: University of Western Australia

CLIMA 35 Stirling Highway CRAWLEY WA 6009

Phone: (08) 9380 1878 Fax: (08) 9380 1140 Email: [email protected].

Objectives • The major objective of the research was to introduce new edible and industrial oil seed options to Australia. Emphasis would be on environments to which current Canola cultivars are less well adapted. Oil seeds endemic to Ethiopia and Botswana would form the main basis of the study. Two of the species are in cultivation, Crambe in the USA for quality industrial oil and Niger as preferred edible oil in Ethiopia, Nepal and India. Accessions of species with high Omega 3 content in their oil - Camelina and Matthiola, and those rich in gamma linolenic acid - Evening primrose and Borage, were added in the early stages of the project.

Background Market prospects for highly polyunsaturated and ‘health’ oils are continuing to expand rapidly. In Australia the oilseed industry is based almost solely on Canola. Whilst canola has been an overall success story it is poorly adapted to some important environments. In some of these the new oilseeds could well have a place and in others high value health or therapeutically valuable species could replace canola.

Research Seeds of some 300 lines were assessed for oil content and quality. Most promising lines were advanced to field plot studies. The quality focus was high oil contents and levels of erucic acid in Crambe (Crambe abyssinica) as industrial oil and high polyunsaturated fatty acids in the edible Niger (Giuzotia abyssinica) and the unique perennial species Morama. (Tylosema esculentum). High Omega 3 linolenic acid was sought in Stock (Matthiola incana) and Camelina (Camelina sativa), and high Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) in Borage and endemic Evening Primrose.

Outcomes Lines of Camelina and Crambe were comparable in yield to the Canola in field experiment. With both containing 35% or more oil. The oil contained 60 percent erucic acid in the case of the industrial oilseed Crambe and over 34%Omegaa 3 linolenic acid the case of Camelina. The common garden Stock (Matthiola incana) contained an even higher content of Omega 3 (60%) High level of GLA acid was found in an endemic evening primrose species Oenothera glazioviana (8-9%) and Borage (24%). Niger with its high oil (40%) and linoleic acid content (62%) could prove to be a useful tropical oilseed.

Implications Most immediate commercial implications for the species evaluated so far are that Camelina should have a place in the Australian oil seed industry as well as Crambe if the demand for high erucic acid oil continues. An endemic Evening Primrose well adapted to southern Australia is likely to out yield the conventional species and deserves further investigation. Niger has a known birdseed market in USA and a oil quality best equated with that of sunflower oil and should find a place in tropical Australian agriculture.

Publications Campbell M C, Francis C M, Kailis S G, Clements J C, and Milton J T. (1999). Some exotic oil seeds with fodder potential. Proceedings Eucarpia Conference, St Petersburg 1999.

Francis C M, Campbell M C, Clements J C (1999) New crops and oilseeds from Ethiopia and elsewhere. Australian New Crops Newsletter No 11.

RIRDC Research Report No. 03/045 ‘New high quality oil seed crops for temperate and tropical Australia’.


Project Title Establishing protocols and guidelines for table olive processing in Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-59A

Researcher: Prof. Stanley G Kailis and Dr David Harris Organisation: University of Western Australia and Chemistry Centre (WA)

NEDLANDS WA 6907 Phone: (08) 9380 1644 Fax: (08) 9380 1108 Email: [email protected] Objectives • The major deliverable outcome of the project is the production of the Australian Table

Olive Manual and its dissemination to the Australian Table Olive Industry. This manual will be the prime guideline for maintaining quality and safety in the Australian Table Olive Industry. A second deliverable will be a scientific review of the national and international literature on the quality, safety, and HACCP management of table olive production. A third deliverable is a published survey on the size, scope and production of the Australian table olive industry.

Background Internationally speaking, the Australian table olive industry is in its infancy. Quality is a priority of the Australian Olive Association, processors and other stakeholders. Concerns in the industry about quality and safety of table olives were the impetus for this project. Project findings have been based on discussions with stakeholders, reference to published literature and original research by the investigators.

Research Australian Table Olive Production Manual After in depth examination of international table olive production and discussions with Australian olive growers and processors the Australian Table Olive Production Manual focuses on the processing olives in brine, without pre-treatment with sodium hydroxide, and by salt and heat drying methods. Quality and safety and HAACP management of table olive production Factors identified in relation to quality and safety and HAACP management of table olive production include the use of: quality inputs; appropriate equipment; a sanitary environment; trained operatives; documented methods; product profiles which include product testing criteria and packing/storage requirements. Testing Selected tests were developed and/or applied to some 300 batches of olives including fresh and processed olives for the purpose of obtaining base line data and developing product testing criteria. During processing the aim was to monitor the pH, salt levels and levels of Enterobacteriacae, Lactic Acid Bacteria, yeasts and moulds in the brine for the purpose of ensuring effective processing and reducing the risk of spoilage and harm to consumers. In the case of chemical, physical and organoleptic assessment, the aim was to provide base line data for assessing quality and producing data for nutritional labelling. Microbiological evaluation of processed olives was undertaken to identify the most suitable testing procedures to ensure safety. Physical Parameters • Appearance – colour, size and shape: maturation state, firmness, flesh to stone ratios Pressure studies on the fruit indicated distinct differences in firmness between varieties and maturation states. Black ripe olives were softer than green ripe olives. Excessively firm green olives tended to be immature and difficult to process. Processed olives showed lower pressures than fresh olives. For cracked or bruised olives where the stone was to be retained, clingstone varieties were more suitable eg Sevillana, Verdale, whereas for destoning, freestone varieties such as Manzanilla and Kalamata, were suitable. Large olives with a high flesh to stone ratio were suitable for destoning and stuffing.


Chemical Parameters • Olive flesh - moisture, fat, level of saturated fats, protein, ash, soluble sugars and total carbohydrate. Fresh olive flesh depending on the maturation state gave the following range of results – Moisture (60.9 to 66.86%w/w), fat (14.9 to 24.7%w/w), saturated fats (15.2 to 16.9%w/w of fat), protein (1.2 to 1.6%w/w), ash (0.6 to 1.0%w/w), total carbohydrate (8.7 to 10%w/w) and soluble sugars (2.1 to 2.3%). Similar results were obtained with processed olives. The soluble sugars were much lower because these were consumed or lost during processing procedures. Ash levels were higher because of the added salt content. • Minerals in olive flesh – phosphorus, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, sulphur, boron, copper iron, manganese and zinc. All olives tested had varying levels of the above minerals. This screen provided base-line information on important nutrients as well as the salt concentration of the flesh. Typical results for two olive styles are given below. • Kalamata Style (20 samples) – Phosphorus (0.02+0.002%w/w), Potassium (0.27+0.21%w/w), Sodium (1.67+0.69%w/w), Calcium (0.04+0.04%w/w), Magnesium (0.009+0.004%w/w), Sulphur (0.02+0.01%w/w), Boron (11.3+14.52 mg/kg), Copper (2.71+1.68mg/kg), Iron (4.8+1.6mg/kg), Manganese (1.1+0.6mg/kg) and Zinc (2.3+1.1mg/kg). • Green Manzanilla Olives in Brine (17samples) Phosphorus (0.018+0.006%w/w), Potassium (0.21+0.07%w/w), Sodium (1.81+0.26%w/w), Calcium (0.036+0.009%w/w), Magnesium (0.007+0.001%w/w), Sulphur (0.015+0.002%w/w), Boron (4.54+1.77 mg/kg), Copper (1.52+0.6 mg/kg), Iron (3.15+0.74 mg/kg), Manganese (0.65+0.18 mg/kg) and Zinc(2.21+0.66%mg/kg). • Heavy metal screen of fresh olives – cadmium and lead Levels of these elements were within safe limits for 14 different olive varieties • Brines – pH, salt and acid levels Most commercially available processed table olives tested had salt and pH levels within IOOC recommendations. On the experimental side, processing batches of fresh olives in a brine of 10%w/v of sodium chloride, the levels stabilised to between 5% to 8.8%w/v sodium chloride and pH values ranging from 4.2 to 6.5. Addition of food acid (vinegar) would bring the salt and pH parameters within the IOOC recommended levels. Microbiological Parameters The following tests were undertaken on selected olives and brines. For routine monitoring, levels of indicator organisms for hygiene, food hazard potential, processing and spoilage were assessed. All tests were applied to selected processed table olives and brines. • Tests on brines during processing - Enterobacteriacae, Escherecia coli Lactic Acid Bacteria, yeasts and moulds - • Tests on olives - Enterobacteriacae, Lactic Acid Bacteria, Coagulase positive staphylococci, Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium botulinum, Listeria monocytogenes, yeasts and moulds. Of the olives and brines tested only low levels of organisms were detected. Organoleptic Assessment The following Organoleptic evaluation was undertaken on 210 batches of processed olives - appearance, colour, colour intensity and homogeneity, aroma, taste, flesh texture, flesh stone detachment. Attributes were scored on a scale from 1 to 10. Olives were then graded as – Extra (<1.5), First, (>1.5<3.5), Second (>3.5<5.5), Mediocre (>5.5<7.5) and Inedible (>7.5). Findings were Extra (11%), First (32%), Second o29%), Mediocre (9%). The main problems found with processed olives were mixed fruit sizes, skin discolourations, possibly due to air exposure during processing and olive damage, +bitterness levels, +salt levels, soft olives and loss of texture. The Australian Table Olive Industry Production of Australian table olives is small, compared to international markets, however Australia is a significant importer of table olive products black olives processed in brine and Spanish style green olives) mainly from Spain, Greece and to a lesser extent Italy. Table olive imports into Australia are currently around 12000Tonnes/year. Australian


domestic table olive production has increased markedly from 2000Tonnes/year in 1999/00 to an estimated current production of 4000Tonnes/year. As few olives are exported from Australia, olive consumption by Australians is currently of the order of 16000Tonnes/year. Most of the imported olives come in bulk quantities and are repacked into consumer size containers either in their original form or marinated with herbs, spices and other aromatics. The Australian table olive industry can be divided into 4 categories – Boutique (up to 5Tonnes/year), Small (5 to 100Tones/year, Medium (100 to 500Tonnes/year) and Large scale (greater than 500Tonnes/year). Most Australian table olive enterprises are boutique or small scale. There are no large-scale operations and there is only one at the medium scale, which reflects the early stage of the industry. Most table olive processing is sited in regional Australia often in close proximity to vineyards and wineries. The latter help induce consumers to cellar door sales. Other Australian table olives are sold in food outlets. Most Australian table olive processors consulted during the study were in favour of using natural fermentation methods and drying methods (salt or heat drying) for processing table olives rather than those using alkali treatments.

Outcomes Australian Table Olive Production Manual Based on the findings of the project the manual concentrates on primary processing - brining, fermentation and salt drying methods as well as secondary processing – adding herbs, spices and aromatics and preparing olive pastes and tapenade. Such methods require only low levels of technical skill, have a high margin of safety for operators, can be scaled to any size of operation, have low water requirements and low pollution potential especially if fermentation brines are used as final packing solutions. The manual covers the following areas: olive fruit characteristics, potential hazards associated with table olives, microbiology of table olive production, general aspects of table olive processing, methods for specific table olive products, post processing activities, raw materials, sampling and testing table olives. Quality and safety and HAACP management of table olive production The investigators have developed the following schema which processors can utilise to develop production maps including responsible persons for each aspect of processing. Suitable authenticated table olive varieties planted olives grown under optimal conditions Olives harvested at correct maturation state Olives stored and handled after harvesting to limit deterioration Olives without imperfections delivered to processor Olives accepted as by processor as per standard Olives stored and handled after acceptance to limit deterioration Olives preliminary sorted and graded Olives washed Olives placed in brine Olives debittered and transformed by yeast/lactic fermentation Olives and brine tested during processing Processed olives meet product profile criteria Olives stored until required for processing Olives tested before packing Olives sorted and graded Olives packed in specific packing solution

Olives packed, labelled stored correctly prior to delivery to third party – wholesaler, retailer, consumer The Future of the Australian Table Olive Industry The potential for an Australian table olive industry is high. This premise is based on steady increases in international and Australian domestic consumption (nearly 1kg/person/year). Suggested reasons for this are better product information, product presentation and product quality coupled with population growth and increased purchasing power of consumers.

Implications Australian Table Olive Production Manual • Current interest is in table olives produced by methods involving fermentation without

pre-treatment with sodium hydroxide. In the long term methods involving the use of sodium hydroxide will be necessary to cope with large tonnages of olives, particularly if an export market is envisaged.

• Persons growing, processing or working with table olives require targeted training programs covering aspects of food science (chemistry and microbiology), food


handling, quality management and occupational health and safety. The manual contents will be integral to such training.

The Australian Table Olive Industry • Decisions need to be made by those entering the table olive industry as to the quantity

of olives to be processed, the varieties to be used and the method and styles to be produced. Premises and equipment must meet occupational and safety and health standards and statutory requirements of national food safety codes.

Quality and safety and HAACP management of table olive production • Documented processing methods, with inventory checks and in-line procedures must

be developed. Product profiles should include inputs, methods, product testing and packing/storage requirements.

• Growers and processors must learn to recognise the principle morphologic characteristics of olives and their stones as part of their quality management practices. Whether fresh or processed, growers and processors must also be able to recognise defective olives. This includes olives with the following – blemished skin, shrivelled appearance, soft or fibrous flesh, abnormally coloured skin, infected or insect damaged olives as well as those with weather or mechanical damage.

• The market place favours larger rather than smaller olives. Olives suitable for processing need to be medium to large (2-6g/olive) with flesh to stone ratio of 5:1 or more. Olives should be graded and culled before processing. Colour of the fresh olives should be classified as green, turning colour and black according to IOOC criteria.

• Harvesting and post harvest handling of the olives must be optimised so that olive flesh does not lose texture due to deterioration through over heating and the action of microorganisms. Poorly stored olives deteriorate rapidly and take on fusty or musty defects. To avoid this fresh olives should be harvested into small vented crates, stowed away from heat and direct sunlight and processed as soon as possible. Generally olives will keep for 48hours under ambient conditions without deterioration.

• Prior to accepting olives for processing, details such as variety, chemical history and harvest date should be provided by the grower. When entering the processing line, the olives must be handled with care during sorting, grading and washing procedures.

• Poor quality water can contaminate olives physically, chemically and microbiologically. Water of doubtful or dubious quality, including rain-water from tanks and ground-water can be contaminated with spoilage organisms as well as some organisms harmful to health. Water that does not meet drinking water standards must be treated eg filtered, sterilised. Spray washing of olives is more effective than static washing. Washing removes chemical contaminants, such as orchard dust, herbicides, pesticides and foliar sprays from the olive skin that may influence processing or leave residues in the olives.

• Salt and pH levels need to be monitored during processing. Salt levels in the brine during fermentation are best maintained at between 8 to 10%w/v sodium chloride. As the salt is taken up by the olive flesh the brine values change depending on the olive variety, maturation state, olive size percentage moisture, and flesh to stone ratio. Salt levels can be adjusted by adding concentrated brine or solid salt. Monitoring the brine pH provides information as to when to add a food acid. Brine pH values at the beginning of processing are between 6 and 7. The pH drops rapidly over first few days of fermentation to pH 4 to 5, because of carbon dioxide production and conversion of some of the sugars to acids. If the pH does not drop, spoilage is likely so that pH adjustment is necessary.

• Enterobacteriacae are an indicator of hygiene and a potential food hazard. As they can also be responsible for olive spoilage during processing early testing of brines is advised. The presence of Escherecia coli is an indicator of food contamination and is also as health hazard. Coagulase positive staphylococci produces a hazardous food toxin. Clostridium perfringens is an indicator of late spoilage. Clostridium botulinum produces a potentially life-threatening toxin but is not routinely tested because of its very low incidence Clostridium perfringens is a spoilage organism carried by water and olives. Listeria monocytogenes is potentially harmful to health, Lactic Acid Bacteria and yeasts are indicator organisms for fermentation. Moulds are an indicator organism for contamination and incorrect processing. Water activity is used as an


indicator for the likelihood of microbiological spoilage of dried olives. • The frequency of microbiological testing, unless a problem arises during processing,

should be 4 weeks after the processing is started and the olives and brine should be tested before packaging. Routine microbiological testing should be undertaken on a monthly basis if processing is prolonged.

Publications Kailis SG and Harris D. Table olives in Australia: an overview and varietal considerations.

Australian Olive Grower, April 2001. Kailis SG and Harris D. Growing olives in Australia for table olive processing - part 1.

Australian Olive Grower, September 2001. Kailis SG and Harris D. Growing olives in Australia for table olive processing - part 2.

Australian Olive Grower, No 24 November 2001. Kailis SG and Harris D. Naturally black olives in brine. The Olive Press, Winter, 2001. Kailis SG, Harris D and Smyth J. Spanish-style green table olives: fruit quality and

processing. The Olive Press, Summer 2001. Kailis SG and Harris D. Table olives and Australia. Proceedings of the Australian Olive

Association Annual Conference, Hunter Valley NSW 2001. Kailis SG and Harris D. A systematic approach to table olive production, Proceedings of

the Australian Olive Association Annual Conference, pp 89-97, Adelaide, SA, 2002.


FRUIT, VEGETABLES AND NUTS

Project Title Improved postharvest handling of lychee RIRDC Project No.:

CSP-7A

Researcher: Dr. Trevor Olesen and Dr. Cameron McConchie Organisation: CSIRO Plant Industry

306 Carmody Rd ST LUCIA QLD 4067

Phone: (07) 3214 2248

Fax: (07) 3214 2272

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

Objectives • The aim of the project was develop practical, safe, reliable and cost-effective protocols for maintaining the quality and increasing the storage-life of the lychee fruit by a) defining commercial fruit quality in a quantitative way, such that different protocols can be compared; b) reconciling the commercial cool-chain handling of fruit, from picking through to market, with the temperature optima for storage; c) comparing a range of bulk handling and packaging systems in terms of their effectiveness for reducing water-loss from the fruit without facilitating the growth of pathogens; d) Investigating the control of pathogens by means of various chemical and biological agents.

Background Lychee is a seasonal, sub-tropical fruit that is considered to be a delicacy in many parts of Asia. Australian production is out-of-season with respect to Asian production. The reason for this is that the fruit has only a short storage-life, which prevents anything other than the best quality fruit from being exported, and then only by the fastest and most expensive means of transport.

Research Optimal time for lychee harvesting and the method of cooling fruit have been quantified. The potential for rehydrating fruit has been identified. The importance of storage temperature and the impact of varying storage conditions assessed. Options for controlling rots using heat treatments and food additives and biological agents have been identified. Simple protocols for assessing the impact of packing lines have been demonstrated. Predictive heat transfer models have also been developed to assist with development of handling protocols. Further development is required for to ensure these advances are integrated into existing postharvest processes.

Outcomes Harvesting at an appropriate time, cooling using a suitable method, to a temperature that does not cause damage and packaging so as to minimise water loss then minimising temperature fluctuations especially during prolonged storage will maximise harvested fruit weight and fruit colour retention and minimise rot development,. A number of options for controlling rot development are also presented. Adopting these changes will deliver substanial benefits especially with the development of improved packaging.

Implications This project has shown several new options for the improved harvesting and processing of lychee that can maximise the quality of lychee and slow the deterioration. The emphasis on hydrocooling to obtain rapid cooling maybe misplaced, as the fruit are seemingly resilient to temperature effects at this stage while wetting the fruit promotes rot development. Several new options for rot control are presented. With further development these could, reduce wastage and open new market opportunities.

Publications RIRDC Research Report ‘Improved postharvest handling of lychee’ (in press)


Project Title Developing a post harvest handling and storage strategy for longan

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-249A

Researcher: Dr. James Drinnan Organisation: Department of Primary Industries

Horticulture PO Box 1054 MAREEBA QLD 4880


• Expand the current information on longan post harvest handling. • Develop alternative post harvest strategies to sulphur dioxide fumigation. • Determine optimum storage temperatures and packaging requirements for longan. • Improve the knowledge base of longan growers on post harvest aspects.

Background As production levels have increased so has the need for definitive information on post harvest storage and handling of longan. Limited information is available from overseas and most of this is not applicable to the conditions or varieties grown in Australia. Also here and overseas the industry has come to rely on sulphur dioxide (SO2) fumigation as a post harvest treatment to extend shelf life. However, SO2 fumigation is facing increasing consumer and regulatory restrictions to its use and may be withdrawn to concerns over health risks. Therefore there is a need to find alternative post harvest treatments in the event that SO2 is withdrawn from use.

Research Experiments were conducted to determine the optimum storage temperature, packaging and humidity. Fruit were sprayed with wettable sulfur prior to harvest to try and improve storage life. Alternatives to SO2 fumigation of fruit were investigated for their suitability for improving shelf life. Samples of fruit were also pre-conditioned in progressively lower temperatures to try and reduce the sensitivity to chilling damage a major problem for long term storage of longan. In all experiments fruit were stored as sub-panicles and the varieties Biew kiew and Kohala were used. Shelf life was assessed by appearance and eating quality.

Outcomes Longan fruit are difficult to store in good condition even for short periods of time due to fruit discolouration due to disease, dehydration or chilling damage. Trials indicated fruit should be stored at the lowest possible temperature at which fruit do not suffer chilling damage around (7.5 - 10ºC) depending on variety and in packaging which keeps the fruit skin from dehydrating (vitafilm, vegie bags) but not too moist. Alternative strategies to replace the use of SO2 fumigation were generally unsuccessful except for the use of hydrochloric acid dips. By dipping longans in 5% hydrochloric acid for 20 minutes the skin colour could be improved. Also because this skin colour remained even at low temperatures and humidities – shelf life could be greatly extended over control fruit.

Implications The results from this project have provided some valuable information on the post harvest storage of longan. The best storage and packaging strategy for longan depends on the length of storage that is required and where and how they are being transported. For 2-3 weeks storage fruit should be protected from dehydration with medium humidity packaging (vitafilm, vegie bag, MIP packaging) and kept just above the critical temperature for chilling injury, 10.0ºC for Biew kiew and 7.5ºC for Kohala.


Project Title Exotic crop review workshop, South Johnstone, February 2003 RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-306A

Researcher: Mr. Pedro O'Connor and Mr. Yan Diczbalis Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

PO Box 20 SOUTH JOHNSTONE QLD 4859

Phone: (07) 4064 1102 Fax: (07) 4064 2249 Email: Pedro.O'[email protected], [email protected] Objectives

• To reassess the priority of crops worthy of research funding. Determine any new and

emerging crop opportunities, which can complement current farming systems. To identify a process to improve domestic market awareness and increased consumption of tropical exotic fruits.

Background RIRDC began funding research into exotic tropical fruits in the mid 1990s. The first

Exotic Crop Review was held in 1997, five major crops were identified as showing most potential for commercialisation. In 2002, RIRDC and industry identified the need to update the list of priorities for research proposals. The most suitable method was to bring industry and researchers together in a forum to formulate direction for the future.

Outcomes Rambutan is the crop that is sustaining the viability of orchards on the Wet Tropics Coast thus industry place highest priority for research in this crop. The current research on mangosteen is sufficient. A strong interest in taro production will increase the need to fund projects in this crop. Jackfruit, pitahaya, starapple and pummelo are other crops that will require future research if funds become available.

Publication RIRDC Research Report ‘Exotic Crop Review Workshop, South Johnstone, 12-13 Feb 2003’ (in press)


Project Title A field evaluation of the productivity of hazelnut varieties RIRDC Project No.:

US-74A

Researcher: Mr. Basil Baldwin Organisation: The University of Sydney

Faculty of Rural Management PO Box 883 ORANGE NSW 2800


• To determine the most suitable hazelnut varieties that could be used for the

establishment of a hazelnut industry in south-eastern Australia. • To assess the effects of geographical region and climate on hazelnut production and

varietal performance and to assess the productive potential of hazelnuts (Corylus avellana L.) in Australia

Background Australia imports about 1800 tonnes of hazelnut kernels annually. These are worth in

excess of 10 million dollars. Local production is less than 50 tonnes of nuts in shell. There is considerable interest in expanding local production, but virtually no research has been conducted on varietal evaluation and hazelnut productivity.

Research Five field experiments have been established, two in NSW, two in Victoria and one in Tasmania, to evaluate a range of hazelnut cultivars over a range of soil and climate conditions. Recordings have been made of periods of pollen shed and female bloom and climatic conditions at each site. Assessments have been made of tree growth, nutritional status, through tissue testing, nut yields and kernel quality.

Outcomes The relative timing of pollen shed and female bloom for the cultivars under evaluation has been determined. Tree growth and nut yield has varied between sites. The trees at the Myrtleford site in NE Victoria have consistently grown better and produced higher than at any other site. The cultivar Barcelona at that site has produced yields comparable to those obtained in Oregon, USA. High levels of soil manganese appear to have had a detrimental effect on tree growth and production at Orange, NSW. Although too early to make specific recommendations, the varieties Barcelona, Tokolyi/Brownfield Cosford (TBC), Tonda Romana, Tonda di Giffoni and Segorbe have performed well at all sites. These varieties are suited to the kernel market, but more data is required on kernel quality and how it is influenced by seasonal conditions. In 2003, the exceptionally dry conditions and a shortage of irrigation water during kernel fill in January - February, caused poor kernel fill of some varieties.

Implications This project has shown that hazelnuts have potential for production in Australia. More needs to be known on the effects of manganese on hazelnut trees and if this is a problem, how it can be addressed. Pollinisers for the Australian selection TBC need to be identified. The trees at the field sites are in the early stages of production so the experiments need to be continued for another three years to gain yield data for economic modeling.

Publications Baldwin, B. Gilchrist, K and Snare, L. 2001.Variations in flowering, growth and yield of hazelnut cultivars and growers' selections in Australia. Proceedings of Fifth International Congress on Hazelnut, Oregon, USA. Acta Horticulturae 556, 109-116.


GRAINS AND PULSES

Project Title Domestic and export market expansion of quality buckwheat RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-183A

Researcher: Rob Death Organisation: Department of Primary Industries(no longer with Dept. Primary Industries, VIC)

402-406 Mair Street BALLARAT VIC 3350

Phone: (03) 53336790 Fax: (03) 53336540 Email: Objectives

• Expand and develop domestic markets for quality Australian buckwheat through co-

operation with the Australian Food Manufacturing Industry.

Background This is the last year in a series of 3 by 3-year buckwheat projects, funded jointly by RIRDC and the Victorian State Government. Almost all previous outputs from the projects have focused on agronomic advancement and supply chain development, with the aim of developing and facilitating export of whole buckwheat seeds (mostly to Japan). This final report aims to add value to the previous work by identifying and recommending future directions for the increased use of Australian grown buckwheat within Australia. In addition there are also recommendations on future directions for the Australian buckwheat industry and the role that Government needs to play. DPI Victoria has two Officers with a long history in the Australian buckwheat industry (Chris Bluett and Stuart Clarke) and retention of their knowledge is highly desirable for the future.

Research By utilising contemporary food industry knowledge, a series of collaborative desk top projects were undertaken with product development operators to ascertain the future potential for using Australian buckwheat in Australian processed food products. In addition, considerable work was completed on the effects that climate change is predicted to have on traditional and emerging growing areas within Australia.

Outcomes The Australian Health Food Sector has been identified as having steady growth potential. However adoption by the “main stream” food processing sector is highly dependent on developing products using buckwheat that appeal to the public, then embarking on a risk strategy of introducing a new product to a sensitive market.

Implications It is apparent from our research and also contemporary production results that the Australian buckwheat industry should be focusing their production energies toward southern Queensland in order to take advantage of predicted climatic changes and also utilisation of existing land resources, cropping infrastructure and human skills for grain production. It is imperative that the buckwheat industry is not abandoned as a potentially profitable rotation crop, for those production areas identified as most suitable in Australia. The report recommends how Governments must maintain resources that are capable of maintaining contemporary knowledge and recommendations for Australian buckwheat production and utilisation.


NEW PLANT PRODUCTS RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

NATIVE FOODS

Project Title Do our own quandong production research (DOOR) feasibility study

RIRDC Project No.:

AQI-2A

Start Date: 1-Jul-02 Finish Date: 20-Nov-03 Researcher: Dr. Ben Lethbridge Organisation: Australian Quandong Industry Association

62 Grants Gully Rd CLARENDON SA 5157


• To attempt to initiate the principles of DOOR (do our own research) in the Australian

Quandong Industry Association. The outcome will be a document critically analysing the introduction of DOOR to a new native food industry and the suitability of the adopted approach to other new (native food specifically) industries.

Current Progress

At the conference workshop on DOOR (August 2002) we reviewed the DOOR process using relevant sections from DOOR in wildflowers and Native plants (RIRDC publication no. 00/103) The concept was well received, ranking excellent on a survey form. The first pro-active newsletter article presented two simple observational projects 1. National survey of quandong pollenators 2. Attachment of quandong haustoria to annual grasses Results from these two projects will be reviewed at the Conference (August 2003). The newsletter also describes an intuitive approach to statistical analysis and some computer techniques. (Spreadsheet etc.) Feed back from the newsletter survey form was minimal. At the general meeting (November 2002) participants indicated that they appreciated the concept, but would prefer a ‘fill in the box approach’ (FIBA) to experimental procedures. The second newsletter article developed the FIBA approach for estimating yields of quandong per tree and correlations with tree yields. The rational of this approach was to allow quandong growers to apply statistical methodology to data they might reasonably be expected to collect whilst producing a crop, without the cumbersome need for rigorous directed experimental designs. The article also includes a glossary of simple statistical methodology so that originally puzzling terms can be better understood. Responses to this current approach will be best assessed after the coming conference workshop and harvest (August to October) A field grafting workshop in July 2003 and further development of knitting statistical approaches with practical quandong production is planned.


Project Title Evaluating performance of cultivated bushfood plants in South Australian environments

RIRDC Project No.:

CSL-11A

Start Date: 1-Jan-00 Finish Date: 1-Jan-04 Researcher: Dr. Maarten Ryder Organisation: CSIRO Land and Water

Private Mail Bag 2 GLEN OSMOND SA 5064


• Diversification of farming practices, with increased and more widespread cultivation

of native food plants in southern Australia • Informed decision making on the choice of native food species or cultivars for climatic

and soil type zones. • Information about quality of produce derived from selected native food species. • Specific training (both formal and on-the-job) of an Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander

traineeship scheme.

Current Progress

A meeting of field site cooperators (representing 7 of the 8 sites) was held at Loxton, SA in June 2002, to facilitate communication and to discuss the maintenance of field trials. CSIRO staff have maintained regular contact with cooperators throughout the year. Data on plant establishment, plant growth (height) and vigour have been collected at least three times from each site during 2002-2003. The shrubs species (muntries and bush tomato, Solanum centrale) produced fruit in the 2002-03 summer at many sites. Data have been processed and statistical analysis has begun. A new field trial site was set up with the Aboriginal community at Ceduna SA, using funds from the Western Eyre Peninsula Landcare group. A paper on the research was presented at the Desert Knowledge conference in Alice Springs in August 2002. Senior RIRDC and CSIRO staff inspected the Junee NSW field site in April 2003. Project newsletters (most recently May 2003) are available in the web at: http://www.clw.csiro.au/research/farming/crops/. The research is supported by RIRDC, Aboriginal Employment Program (SA Government), Australian Native Produce Industries and Primary Industries and Resources SA.


Project Title Soil biological constraints and benefits to quandong and other native food production

RIRDC Project No.:

CSL-20A

Start Date: 1-May-02 Finish Date: 31-Jul-03 Researcher: Dr. Maarten Ryder Organisation: CSIRO Land and Water

Private Mail Bag 2 GLEN OSMOND SA 5064


• Determination of the extent and cause of quandong seeling loss in nurseries. • Assessment of methods that may have potential to control quandong seedling loss,

including the use of chemical controls and/or beneficial soil fungi to protect against soil borne pathogens (depending on the results of the first objective.)

Current Progress

CSIRO staff have visited a number of quandong nurseries and orchards and, for the nurseries, have compiled information on estimated seedling losses and nursery practices. Several alternative explanations for quandong seedling losses have been proposed, and some of these are currently being tested in glasshouse experiments. The first experiment focuses on the impact of potting mix moisture content and watering frequency on seedling health and growth. The second experiment aims to find out which of a range of soil-borne plant pathogens are able to cause disease symptoms on newly emerged seedling roots of quandong. In the same experiment we also intend to test biological and chemical treatments to control disease. The research is supported by RIRDC, the Australian Quandong Industry Association and Australian Native Produce Industries.


Project Title Effects of post harvest handling, storage and processing on functional ingredients in native plant foods

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-295A

Start Date: 1-Dec-02 Finish Date: 28-Feb-05 Researcher: Mrs. Janette McDonald Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Centre for Food Technology 19 Hercules Street HAMILTON QLD 4007


• To investigate the effect of current post harvest handling practices, food preservation

methods and storage conditions on the stability of functional ingredients from three native plant sources (bush tomato, kakadu plum and wattleseed) to improve the commercial value to both producers and food manufacturers.

Current Progress

A literature review was conducted in 2001 as preparation for the project application. It is being updated regularly as part of the ongoing needs of the project as new information becomes available relevant to the project outcomes. Selection of post harvest and processing methods, functional ingredients and food systems has been initiated in consultation with the industry partner and the following outcomes have been achieved:

• agreement on selection of native plant foods: kakadu, bush tomato, wild lime and wattleseed;

• agreement on bioactives (functional ingredients) to be evaluated; • initial identification of harvesting techniques and issues in terms of seasonality

regarding supply of raw materials; • identification of issues regarding proposed visits to sites to observe hand

harvesting and post harvest handling and distribution methods • observation of processing of some finished products

Preliminary discussions with the industry partner have identified some current harvesting and post harvest handling methods for raw material. Samples of bush tomato, wattlesed, wild lime and kakadu plum have been sourced from the industry partner for benchmarking of bioactives.


Project Title Functional properties of Australian bushfoods RIRDC Project No.:

UCS-29A

Start Date: 1-Feb-02 Finish Date: 30-Jun-06 Researcher: Dr. Jian Zhao Organisation: Charles Sturt University

School of Wine and Food Sciences Locked Bag 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678


• To promote market growth and enhance profitability of the Australian bushfood

industry by: 1. generating reliable data on the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of bushfoods to add to the existing knowledge and anecdotal information on their functionality; 2. expanding the application of bushfoods using the research outcomes; and 3. developing antimicrobial, antioxidant and emulsifying agents of commercial grade for use as natural substitutes for their synthetic counterparts.

Current Progress

In the past 12 months, we have completed the extraction of 20 native plants using three solvents with polarity varying from apolar to strongly polar. The extracts were tested for activity against 11 major foodborne pathogens, seven common food spoilage bacteria, nine yeasts and several moulds using the agar disk diffusion method. A number of the extracts were found to possess anti-microbial properties and five of which have shown strong activity against a wide spectrum of bacteria and yeasts. The extracts, however, were generally ineffective against the moulds tested. Work is continuing to determine the minimum inhibition concentrations (MIC) of the active extracts and this part of the project is expected to be completed in the next two months. We have completed the work on the screening of native plants for antioxidant activities. Eighteen native plants (or their products) were tested for total phenolics and antioxidant activity using the β-carotene bleaching method. All of the plant extracts showed antioxidant activity with four extracts exhibiting relatively strong activities. In sum, significant progress has been made in the past 12 months and the project is well on track to meet its objectives within the scheduled timeframe.


CULINARY HERBS, SPICES AND BEVERAGES

Project Title Northern Australia cocoa development (Stage 2) RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-301A

Start Date: 1-Jul-02 Finish Date: 30-Nov-05 Researcher: Mr. Craig Lemin Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture PO Box 20 SOUTH JOHNSTONE QLD 4859


• The feasibility and econonmics of cocoa production in northern Australia will continue

to be investigated. Yield potential of accessible hybrid and clonal types will be assessed in two potential growing regions (tropical Northern Territory and north Queensland). Agrononmic aspects of production in northern Australia will be recorded and management guidelines developed. Technology for mechanisation of pod splitting and bean extraction will be investigated. Additionally, plantation layouts, tree management strategies and a harvest aid to reduce labour inputs will be investigated. Information gathered wil allow further development of a cocoa econonmic model to provide a decision support for assessing the economic viability of cocoa production in northern Australia.

Current Progress

The project is continuing in NT and Qld subsequent to a review meeting held at Darwin in September 2002 where an economic model of cocoa production in northern Australia was also updated. Prior to this meeting the Western Australia Dept. of Agriculture (WADA) communicated their intention to withdraw from Stage 2 of the project. In February 2003, RIRDC, Cadbury and a new industry collaborator visited trial sites in WA, NT and Qld and participated in a meeting at Cairns to discuss project IP and equity. In March 2003, the new industry collaborator decided to back-out of their previously agreed commitments to the project. Recently a position has been negotiated whereby the industry collaborator will remit their 2002-03 funding to the project but discontinue after that. Cadbury-Schweppes and Cadbury UK remain strongly committed to the project. A replacement source of funds is urgently required for 2003-04 and 2004-05. Hybrid Yield Evaluation Darwin The trees are generally growing well but are significantly behind those in Qld. Problems with termites have continued but are being adequately controlled. Pressure from insects is generally low. Premature removal of shade trees (due to storm damage) resulted in exposure damage to the cocoa. This was redressed with replanting of shade trees and additional shelter trees in early 2003. Some tree losses have been attributed to poor root development – this is not widespread. Small harvests commenced in May 2002 and have continued. Yield has been low. Currently, flowering and pod set is good and tree vigor has improved. Mossman The trees have continued to develop rapidly – the canopy is now at 3-4 m. Shade trees have been removed (excepting perimeter). Shading by the canopy has reduced weed growth and herbicide applications. Insect pests are being adequately controlled. Regular harvesting is carried out – yield to date is very good and above expectations. Yield differences attributed to hybrid and row layout are apparent and will probably be significant. Broome Prior to withdrawal of WADA from the project, difficulties were continuing to be experienced with germination and seedling development. Also, the field planted trees were growing poorly. No compelling reason was attributed to the problems experienced. A


report was submitted in July 2002 discussing outcomes and failed objectives. Farming Systems The trees at South Johnstone are slightly behind the Mossman planting. Previously high insect pressure (canopy) has reduced to moderate or low levels. As per Mossman, shade trees have been removed. Regular harvesting is also conducted – the monthly profile is different to Mossman. Yield to date is good – about half that for Mossman (per hectare basis). Canopy management of trellised trees is more intensive but continuing. A harvest aid has not been developed – this is now a priority given that trees are yielding. Clonal Introduction 4 replicates of the 11 introduced clones were successfully field planted at Coastal Plains (NT) and are being monitored. A small number of clones have been field planted at South Johnstone. A larger planting at South Johnstone is planned but unavailability of rootstock is currently holding this up. Pod Processing The prototype pod splitter has been used extensively for processing pods ex Mossman and South Johnstone with various modifications. Further development is required. A pod feeding mechanism was constructed but did not work as hoped. A commercial collaborator could be sought to assist with further development. A larger and improved version of the Brazilian separator trommel is being fabricated and will be available for upcoming harvest peaks. Fermentation In Qld, several fermentations have been conducted in specially constructed boxes using wet bean from Mossman and South Johnstone pods. Incomplete fermentation is emerging as an issue. To date the pod index is reasonable and bean characteristics are good. No significant fermentations have been performed in NT but bean size and indicated pod index are not favorable. Other The Cadbury supported PhD investigating “factors limiting growth and yield of cocoa

in northern Australia” is being written up. All findings have been communicated to the project.

Currently, a proposal for a PhD investigating fermentation is being developed between Cadbury and UNSW. This will link with the project in terms of successfully demonstrating commercial scale fermentations.

WADA agreed to retain the small field planting of cocoa at Kununurra supported with funds leftover from the discontinued Broome trial. Shade trees were thinned, the windbreak extended and a maintenance and monitoring schedule implemented. These trees have developed slowly in the harsh environment. However they have been useful for physiological measurements in the PhD study. This planting will be reviewed at September 2003.


Project Title Condiment paprika: breeding, processing and commercialisation (Stage 2)

RIRDC Project No.:

US-116A

Start Date: 1-Jul-02 Finish Date: 30-Nov-04 Researcher: Prof. Peter Sharp Organisation: The University of Sydney

Plant Breeding Institute PMB 11 CAMDEN NSW 2570


• Breed cultivars suitable for mechanised commercial production. • Develop advanced lines incorporating the traits of pedicel and fruit detachability to aid

mechanical harvesting.

Current Progress

During the 2002/03 season besides the routine paprika breeding program we also ran a comprehensive variety trial. This trial included two USA, 8 central European varieties and 6 of our selections. The two USA cultivars 'Papri Queen' and 'Conquistador' produced the highest total yields when all fruits ripe and green were harvested at once. Considering mechanical harvesting and only the ripe fruits are collected one of our selections, Co 57-13.3 produced the highest yield. Regarding the dry-matter production per unit area another selection 'Sweet Cerise' (Co.SzNFD.3) was significantly the best line. During the past seasons this line produced the highest pigment content, >300 ASTA. Depending on this year's pigment tests we anticipate submission for PBR registration three lines: 'Sweet Cerise', 'Co57-13.3’ and 'Co.801.2'. We are cooperating with the Szeged Paprika Research Station, Hungary (Drs Gy & N Somogyi) and a Spanish paprika breeder (Dr Isabel Garcia Pomar). Consequently 20 crosses as requested by Dr Pomar were made and we received 43 crosses from Hungary. This cooperation is utilizing the alternative seasons in Europe and Australia. Paul Kelly, a Western Australian grower lost 70% of last season's crop due to irrigation problems. He requested seed for his next season’s crop.


EXTRACTIVE AND FIBRE CROPS

Project Title Processing and market assessment for cottonised fibre from linseed stalks

RIRDC Project No.:

CWT-2A

Start Date: 18-Aug-02 Finish Date: 17-Aug-03 Researcher: Dr. Peter Lamb Organisation: CSIRO Textile and Fibre Technology

PO Box 21 BELMONT VIC 3216


• An evaluation of the feasibility of processing field-retted linseed stalks into high value

cotton-like fibre that can be further processed on existing cotton machinery, and in blends with cotton.

• A comparison of the technical feasibility, economic attractiveness and environmental impact, relative to the conventional high-labour cost processes, used for producing flax yarns.

• Assessment of cultivars, time of harvest, and growing and retting conditions by measurement of the achievable fibre properties (diameter, length and strength).

• A market assessment, with input from fabric makers, of the potential for yarns spun using cottonised seed flax.

Current Progress

Waste stalks from linseed (a stunted variety of flax) have been field retted before being decorticated in the newly acquired processing plant of the Flax Company of Australia. Combined mechanical and chemical processing has been developed to remove contaminants and separate the bast into its component fibres. Even mild treatments allowed the ultimate fibres to be teased out by hand while the material was wet but the fibres re-attached firmly on drying which lead to unacceptable breakage in further processing A treatment regime has been found that achieves good individualisation and inhibits the re-glueing. The resultant mean fibre diameter is about 15µm (micrometre) while the fully individualised fibres average only about 12µm, comparable to a fine cotton. However, the fully treated fibre is very short which means it is unsuitable for spinning except possibly in blends with cotton or longer synthetics. Alternatively, it means that less stunted varieties are necessary. Some partly individualised material was shown to a commercial spinner, A.W. Spinning Mills Pty Ltd., and one sample was assessed as “nearly spinnable”. The fibres had good strength and might be ring spun but there were too many long fibres for open-end spinning. The other sample was considered to be too short.


Project Title Olive harvesting project - harvest timing for optimal olive oil quality

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-197A

Start Date: 1-Jul-01 Finish Date: 30-Nov-04 Researcher: Dr. Rod Mailer Organisation: NSW Department of Agriculture

Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute PMB WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650


• To determine the precise harvest time for optimal olive oil quality of four olive oil

varieties through oil quality analysis and organoleptic assessment of fruit and oil samples progressively through ripening.

• Assessment of harvest parameters such as fruit detachment force, uniformity of ripening, fruit mass and fruit maturity index, through the fruit ripening period to derive harvest efficiency indicators with the aim of developing field guidelines for harvest timing.

• Assess the effects of deficit and full irrigation on harvest timing, oil yield, oil quality and extraction efficiency.

• Provide industry with technical data on irrigation management and harvest timing to achieve optimal quality and oil extraction efficiency.

• Assess the effects of harvest timing and irrigation on chemical and organoleptic stability of olive oils.

Current Progress

Drought conditions prevailed throughout the previous summer which has enabled us to impose severe deficit irrigation treatments without the complications caused by summer rainfall. However the drought conditions and low atmospheric humidity also meant that we were unable to supply optimal irrigation to control treatments due to priority watering of wine grapes. Despite this, we were still able to implement three distinct irrigation treatments as per out experimental design. Minor harvests were carried out on 17 February and 18 March to establish the pattern of oil accumulation in all four varieties under investigation. The first major harvest was carried out on 9 April, the second on 30 April and harvests 3 and 4 will be conducted in late May and mid-late June. Results from the first major harvest showed differences in oil yield, moisture content and oil chemistry between varieties, with polyphenol levels substantially higher this year than at the equivalent time last year. Fruit moisture content and fruit size has been influenced by irrigation treatments although other yield and quality differences are not clear at this stage. The ideal seasonal conditions and more consistent yield of the experimental trees this year promises to provide us with good data on the yield and quality characteristics of the varieties under investigation.


Project Title Evaluation of jojoba germplasm in different environments RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-206A

Start Date: 1-Jul-02 Finish Date: 31-Jul-05 Researcher: Mr. Peter Milthorpe Organisation: NSW Department of Agriculture

PO Box 300 CONDOBOLIN NSW 2877


• To evaluate the response of flowering and fruiting of a diverse, but known, range of

jojoba germplasm to changes in climate across Australia. • To provide benchmarks to assist researchers and growers in the selection of new

varieties as well as give confidence in recommending where new selections are best suited.

Current Progress

The 5 sites in eastern Australia have been visited recently and all plants have been tagged. The co-operators have maintained the plants well during the year and despite the drought, few plants have died. There is a good crop of buds on all plants at all sites. This year a new tag type was used to assist the co-operators by facilitating branch recognition on each plant. Data scoring sheets have subsequently been prepared and forwarded to co-operators in preparation for data collection. This should commence from late August with the onset of spring conditions and the commencement of flowering. It is anticipated that data sheets will be returned to me for collation by the end of October after fruit counts have been completed. Arrangements are currently being made to visit the WA sites.


Project Title Evaluation of guar cultivars in central and southern Queensland

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-286A

Start Date: 1-Jul-01 Finish Date: 30-Nov-04 Researcher: Mr. Colin Douglas Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Australian Tropical Crops Genetic Resource Centre Locked Mail Bag 1 BILOELA QLD 4715


• To identify a new cultivar of guar suitable for commercial dryland production central

and southern Queensland.

Current Progress

Guar is a promising new summer-growing grain legume option for dryland farming systems of Queensland and northern New South Wales. There is an expanding international market for gum extracted from the seed; it is widely used in industrial processes and as a food additive. Seed of 104 lines selected from the 2001/02 trial was increased during the winter at Ayr Research Station. Two yield trials were grown in 2002/03, at Biloela Research Station and on a farm trial at St. George, using supplementary irrigation in this drought year. Twenty five promising lines with no lodging, good seed set, and low seed weathering have been identified in the paddock. Gum content along with collated data on agronomic traits, yield and seed quality will be used to select elite lines for the next round of trials in the 2003/04 season. A key representative from industry partner, Australian Gum Products, and a former guar plant breeder visited Biloela to view promising varieties in the trial. Twenty new lines of guar imported from breeding programs in the USA and Pakistan were released from post-entry quarantine. Intial seed quantities have been increased and this material will be planted in field evaluation plots in November 2003.


Project Title Evaluation of hemp and kenaf breeding lines in tropical and sub-tropical environments

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-292A

Start Date: 1-Jul-02 Finish Date: 30-Nov-05 Researcher: Dr. Peter Lawrence Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

DPI Research Station Locked Bag 1 BILOELA QLD 4715

Phone: (07) 4992 9135 Fax: (07) 4992 3468 Email: Objectives

• To facilitate the establishment of a bast fibre industry in Australia by identifying

suitable high-yielding low-drug content cultivars of hemp and suitable high-yielding cultivars of kenaf that are adapted to sub-tropical and tropical environments in Queensland.

Current Progress

Hemp and kenaf are potential new field crops for sub-tropical and tropical environments. These bast fibres are suitable for manufacturing a wide range of non-woven products such as replacing fibre-glass, reinforced composites for use as internal mouldings in cars, or geo-textiles. Five cultivars of kenaf and four lines of hemp were evaluated at three different row spacings in field trials at two locations, Biloela and Mareeba, in 2002/03. The kenaf and hemp plants were harvest for fibre yield when the plants flowered, as this is the optimum growth stage to obtain quality fibre. Emergence of hemp at Biloela was low (0-15%), leading to the conclusion that the surface crusting soils in the Callide Valley are not suitable for growing hemp. The kenaf flowered in approximately 170 days at Mareeba and 165 days at Biloela. The best cultivar at Biloela was a Chinese variety Yuexuan 743, yielding 25t/ha; and best cultivar at Mareeba was Gregg yielding 18t/ha. The current commercial kenaf variety yielded 19t/ha and 14t/ha respectively at Biloela and Mareeba. Narrow rows (25cm) were higher yielding than wider rows (65-75cm) at both locations. CHG, the best hemp line at Mareeba flowered in 117 days and yielded 8t/ha. Yields were similar in 18cm and 25cm rows at the same plant density (40 plants/m2). The THC content of line CHG was low (0.05-0.1%) and well within acceptable levels. In conclusion, the first year of trials has identified promising new cultivars of both kenaf and hemp. Further trials are required in the next two years at appropriate locations to confirm these results.


Project Title Evaluating olive water requirements from seedling to pre-fruit bearing

RIRDC Project No.:

DEB-2A

Start Date: 1-Sep-00 Finish Date: 30-Aug-04 Researcher: Mr. James De Barro Organisation: De Barro Agricultural Consulting

PO Box 424 KEITH SA 5267


• Quantify the volumetric soil moisture requirements of olives from planting to pre-fruit

bearing and the development of the effective root zone depth to eliminate excess irrigation. Create and publish a flexible soil moisture requirement protocol for young trees before fruit bearing in a format for growers to utilise in their young olives and act as a reference point for developing a specific irrigation strategy for their property. Such a protocol could be used to calibrate soil moisture recording devices that assist accurate scheduling of irrigation.

Current Progress

The third irrigation season concluded and the trees are now 42 months old, with minimal fruit bearing. Irrigation timing and quantities, rainfall events and tree growth (height, truck girth and canopy diameter) have been recorded. Tree growth is being compared between trees irrigated according to soil moisture monitoring and those irrigated on calendar timing and perceived nutrient requirements. Data is being collected from trees grown on deep sand and those on heavy clay. One hectare of olive grove has 250 trees grown in an 8 x 5 m grid spacing and the micro-sprinklers are restricted. 6-18 month old trees grown in the heavy clay soil required 0.16 ML/ha of irrigation and 18-30 month old trees required 0.17 ML/ha. 30-42 month old trees required 0.08 ML/ha. The calendar timed trees of the same age had 0.47 ML/ha applied. There were no significant differences in tree growth measurements between the two irrigation practices. 6-18 month old trees grown on deep sand required 0.18 ML/ha of irrigation and 18-30 month old trees required 0.20 ML/ha. 30-42 month old trees had 0.09 ml/ha applied (compared to 0.66 ML/ha for the calendar practice). These trees became moderately water stressed in late November, and whilst they recovered, it impacted negatively on fruit set. There was a need for a specific irrigation in mid November ahead of a heat wave. Trees showed little evidence of significant moisture usage from below 45 cm deep. The reduced water requirement and apparently healthy trees indicate water use was widely away from the tree centre. This will be monitored this coming season with additional monitoring instrumentation. The research indicates that the scheduled trees are being provided adequate soil moisture and that the calendar timing is providing excess to the tree’s needs. Incorporating rainfall there was a 35-40% decrease in water applied in the scheduled trees in the third season. Actual irrigation application on the clay soil was 326 litres/tree compared to 357 litres/tree on the deep sand.


Project Title National Olive Variety Assessment Project (NOVA) - Stage 2 RIRDC Project No.:

SAR-47A

Start Date: 1-Dec-02 Finish Date: 30-Nov-04 Researcher: Ms. Susan Sweeney Organisation: Department of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries (SA)

PIRSA Rural Solutions Plant Research Centre GPO Box 397 ADELAIDE SA 5001


• To deliver informed and skilled olive orchard management through provision of:

1. A nationally coordinated technical and educational support network. 2. Comparative physiological information on the performance of all known olive varieties and promising new feral varieties in Australia. 3. Survival, growth and management information from a range of olive varieties across a range of climatic/edaphic conditions in Australia.

Current Progress

The 2002 survey of olive varieties from properties across Australia is currently being analysed. The following are some early highlights from 37 different varieties. • The 10 varieties that yielded the highest oil percentage in dry flesh were Corregiola,

Arbequina, Barnea, Manaiki, Frantoio, I-77, Paragon, Kalamata and Del Morocco. To the extent that oil % in dry flesh is a predictor of oil yield, these varieties show promise as high oil yielding varieties. The 10 varieties that yielded the lowest percentage of oil in dry flesh were: UC13A6, Californian Mission, SA Verdale, Hojiblanca, Frantago, Oblitza, Manzanilla de Sevilla and Large Fruiting.

• Oleic acid is a favourable fatty acid for olive oil quality due to enhanced oxidative

stability and superior nutritional quality. The 10 varieties with the highest oleic acid content were: Frantago, Picual, I-77, Coratina, Kalamata, Leccino, Hojiblanca, Ascolano, Pendolino and Manzanilla de Sevilla. The 10 varieties with the lowest oleic acid content were: Katsourela, Columella, Rouget, Azapa, Manaiki, SA Verdale, Sevillano, Marchiosa, Arbequina and Jumbo Kalamata.

There was a clear trend in increasing levels of oleic acid from fruit samples from more southerly latitudes in Australia.


Project Title Wild olive selection for quality oil production RIRDC Project No.:

UA-54A

Start Date: 1-Jul-00 Finish Date: 30-Nov-03 Researcher: Prof. Margaret Sedgley Organisation: The University of Adelaide

School of Agriculture and Wine Discipline of Wine and Horticulture Waite Agricultural Research Institute PMB 1 GLEN OSMOND SA 5064


• The aim of the project is selection of new improved olive cultivars from wild southern

Australian material, based on oil analysis, DNA fingerprinting, propagation and field trials. This will improve yield and quality of olive oil for domestic and export markets, and provide quality assurance to the industry.

Current Progress

Superior trees were identified on the basis of the fruit having >18% oil in the flesh at 50% moisture content determined by Soxlhet extraction and the fatty acid profile, measured using gas chromatography, having greater than 70% oleic acid and less than 1% linolenic acid. The superior selections were propagated in the glasshouse, and DNA fingerprinted to confirm that all propagules were identical to the parent tree. The fingerprints were compared to those in our olive collection and it was found that the selections were genetically distinct from all of the cultivars in the database. The trees were planted in a trial plot accommodating 300 trees in an array of 30 rows by 10 columns at the University of Adelaide Roseworthy Campus. Thirty-five superior feral selections and 3 known cultivars were included in the trial. Details of the trial design and a copy of the planting plan were lodged with the Plant Breeders Rights Office. The plants have now been in the ground for 10 months and are growing well. Measurements of growth rates will be taken in spring 2003. One hundred trees were sent to growers’ properties in South Australia and New South Wales and more trees will be sent to Queensland in the near future, to assess their performance in different environmental conditions.


Project Title Laying the groundwork for a new rural industry - Stevia rebaudiana

RIRDC Project No.:

UCQ-17A

Start Date: 1-Jul-02 Finish Date: 31-Jul-04 Researcher: Prof. David Midmore Organisation: Central Queensland University

School of Biological and Environmental Sciences ROCKHAMPTON QLD 4702


• To lay the basis for a rural industry that will replace imported artificial sweetener with

a risk-free natural sweetener. This will achieved by: * accessing information on food safety issues and determine the likely acceptance of steviosides by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (formerly ANZFA) for use in foodstuffs. * accessing germplasm from diverse sources (particularly Japan, Taiwan, China, Korea, India and Paraguay) and test them under a range of environmental conditions, leading to quantifiable production outputs on which to evaluate the viability of the industry.

Current Progress

This project follows an introductory study funded by RIRDC in 2001/02. The 2 year project focuses on two aspects necessary for a successful stevia industry to be established – agronomics and market development. The agronomic work in the initial period is concentrating on locating and importing seed of commercially available stevia varieties, procedures for germination and seedling establishment and then growing plants at a number of locations (from Bowen in the north to Burnie in the south). Six imported varieties, together with a number of strains located within Australia (mainly from the herb nurseries), are now being grown to determine stevioside content and quality in the plant leaves from the various varieties at different latitude and at different times of the year and plant growth stages. Market development work so far has concentrated on identifying and contacting parties interested in the processing side and use of stevioside, helping coordinate development activities and assisting with provision of supporting data (from China, Japan and elsewhere) for applications to have stevioside registered for use in processed foods as a non-calorie, non-chemical alternative sweetener. It is now approved for use in domestic food preparation and as an industral food/beverage ‘flavour’.


Project Title Diagnosing diseases affecting mature jojoba plantations and developing strategies to reduce their effect on commercial production of jojoba seeds

RIRDC Project No.:

UCS-27A

Start Date: 1-Jul-00 Finish Date: 1-Aug-03 Researcher: Dr. Gavin Ash Organisation: Charles Sturt University

School of Agriculture PO Box 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678


• The naming and classification of currently observed diseases afflicting jojoba

plantations. • The development of a testing procedure to objectively measure the impact of disease

in a plantation. • The development of management practices to minimise the effect of these diseases in

commercial plantations. • Providing base information to allow the breeding and development of resistant jojoba

varieties.

Current Progress

In surveys conducted in 2000 and 2001 several fungi and bacteria were isolated from both symptomatic and asymptomatic jojoba plants in eastern Australia. The pathogenicity of isolates of Fusarium oxysporum and Burkholderia andropogonis has been established. The pathogenicity of the other microorganisms could not be established. A study of the genetic diversity of the F. oxyxsporum isolates indicates that there are four genotypes present in the samples found, that there are common genotypes between isolates found in asymptomatic plants and symptomatic plants and that all four genotypes are widely distributed. This may indicate that the isolates have been distributed in cuttings from a common source. However, subsequent isolation from cuttings and the nursery of origin has failed to produce any further isolates. Current research is concentrating on the detection of the fungus using PCR, the isolation and characterisation of F. oxysporum from soil from jojoba plantations and comparison of isolates from Australia with international isolates. Studies are also ongoing on the likely source of the B. andropogonis using epidemiological and molecular studies.


Project Title Production of bioactive phenols from olive processing waste streams

RIRDC Project No.:

UCS-32A

Start Date: 1-Sep-02 Finish Date: 31-May-06 Researcher: Dr. Paul Prenzler Organisation: Charles Sturt University

School of Science and Technology Locked Bag 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678


• To investigate the potential to add value to process waste streams, thereby creating a

sustainable and integrated Australian olive industry with a number of product streams. The outcomes will be: * A survey of waste streams from olive oil processing to identify bioactive fractions; * Isolation, identification and quantification of the commercially useful bioactive compounds; * Knowledge of the impact of varietal, regional, seasonal and processing differences on the composition of waste streams and the bioactivity, based on Australian conditions; * The investigation of strategies for the extraction of compounds of commercial interest from olive industry waste streams, thus enabling the reutilisation of the residue; * Trained personnel to meet the future demands of the olive industry.

Current Progress

Progress toward meeting the stated objectives is advancing in a timely fashion and we have met all milestones up to May 2003 (see GANTT Chart). As indicated in the 2002 Annual Report the commencement of this project was contingent on appointing a PhD student. This has now happened and the student is very quickly becoming familiar with the analytical techniques required for the project (Item 2 on GANTT Chart). The Australian Olive Association was consulted to provide advice about the waste streams being generated in Australia and we have accordingly begun to focus on waste from a two-phase decanter. Fractionating and bioactivity testing of the waste will occur later in 2003 (Items 4 and 5 on GANTT Chart). Assessment of varietal and other factors on the composition of waste will be forthcoming as sampling of waste continues. It should be noted that due to the extreme drought over 2002-2003 the processing season was shortened considerably and this has affected the number of samples that can be collected.


Project Title Quality enhancement of Australian extra-virgin olive oils RIRDC Project No.:

UCS-33A

Start Date: 1-Sep-02 Finish Date: 31-May-06 Researcher: Dr. Paul Prenzler Organisation: Charles Sturt University

School of Science and Technology Locked Bag 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678


• Chemical profiles of the component phenols and volatiles in extra-virgin olive oils will

be related to extraction methods and cultivars to identify processing parameters critical to the production of premium oils.

Current Progress

Progress toward meeting the stated objectives is advancing in a timely fashion and we have met all milestones up to May 2003 (see GANTT Chart). As indicated in the 2002 Annual Report the commencement of this project was contingent on appointing a PhD student. This has now happened and the student is very quickly becoming familiar with the analytical techniques required for the project (Item 2 on GANTT Chart). The Australian Olive Association was consulted to provide advice about the most commercially significant cultivars. This has led to sampling of corregiola/frantoio and manzanillo fruit and oils. Although not explicitly stated in the Milestones, the successful bench trials (Item 4) to be conducted during Aug-March is dependent on suitable methods of fruit storage. Accordingly an experiment has been set up to determine the effects of fruit storage on oil quality. It should be noted that due to the extreme drought over 2002-2003 the processing season was shortened considerably and this has affected the number of samples that can be collected.


Project Title Evaluating new guayule varieties for low-allergenic rubber production

RIRDC Project No.:

UQ-94A

Start Date: 27-Mar-01 Finish Date: 31-Mar-04 Researcher: Dr. Doug George Organisation: The University of Queensland

School of Agriculture and Horticulture Gatton Campus GATTON QLD 4345


• To evaluate new improved guayule germplasm (7 proven and 50 promising lines) and

the range of polyploidy series (diploid, triploid and tetraploid germplasm) from USA in Queensland outback.

• To establish a direct seeding method including seed pellet formation. • To establish a seed multiplication program. • To carry out economic analysis based on field data and to make recommendation on

guayule industry in Australia.

Current Progress

Germplasm evaluation trial at Gatton In November 2002, 62 weeks after transplanting, improved lines produced significantly greater plant and stem dry matter than the standards, N 565 and 11591. AZ-1 produced the highest plant and stem dry matter yields of 13.15 t/ha and 8.35 t/ha respectively. Increase in stem dry matter of AZ-1 ranged from 47 to 82% compared with lines N 565 and 11591. Rubber contents of improved lines ranged from of 6.9 to 8.4% and were not superior to the standards. However, improved lines produced significantly greater rubber yields due to increased biomass production; AZ-1, AZ-2 and AZ-5 were greater than N 565 and 11591 with increases ranging from 41% to 67%. AZ-1 and AZ-2 also produced greater resin yields than N 565 and 11591. Germplasm evaluation trial at Chinchilla Mean plant height (46, 46, and 48 cm) of the improved lines, AZ-1, AZ-2 and AZ-3 and widths (48, 51 and 50 cm) 60 weeks after transplanting were significantly greater than N 565 11591. Direct seeding trials A preliminary direct seeding trial conducted in spring 2002 helped in identifying seed processing and seed treatments to break dormancy as priority areas.


Project Title New oilseed options for Australian farmers and industry RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-74A

Start Date: 1-Jan-03 Finish Date: 1-Mar-06 Researcher: Dr. Clive Francis Organisation: University of Western Australia



• To deliver to farmers and industry new oilseed options for export and local production,

namely: 1. Oilseeds for industrial use and the production of biodiesel. 2. Oilseed for the production of quality mustard oils for export. 3. Oilseeds that contain high proportions of essential fatty acids; Omega 3 and Gamma Linolenic acids.

Current Progress

The project, commenced in Jan 2003, has accumulated alternative oilseed germplasm for assessment of oil content, yield and quality. These are to be sown at the University of WA field station in May this year. The oilseed germplasm will address 3 main objectives. 1. Oilseeds for industrial use or biodiesel. The germplasm to be sown in 2003 includes

high erucic acid lines of Brassica species. 2. A range of mustards potentially for culinary use and export. These will include.

Brassica juncea (Indian or Brown mustard), Sinapis alba (white or English mustard), and Brassica carinata (Ethiopian mustard)

3. Selection for essential fatty acids amongst lines of Linum usitatissimum (Golden flax)

high in omega-3 fatty acids, and Echium species for gamma linolenic and other novel fatty acids.


Project Title Sustainable pest and disease management in Australian olive production

RIRDC Project No.:

UWS-17A

Start Date: 1-Jul-01 Finish Date: 31-Dec-04 Researcher: A/Prof. Robert Spooner-Hart Organisation: University of Western Sydney

Centre for Horticulture & Plant Science Hawkesbury Campus Locked Bag 1797 PENRITH SOUTH DC NSW 1797

Phone: (02) 4570 1429 Fax: (02) 4570 1314 Email: [email protected] Objectives • To provide growers with a clear picture of the pest and disease complex in Australian

olive agroecosystems and an increased understanding of sustainable approaches to their control. These objectives will be achieved by the following: 1. Surveying districts throughout Australia for incidence and severity of olive pests and diseases and their impact on production. 2. Developing and undertaking field monitoring systems for key pests and diseases. 3. Conducting workshops on pest and disease recognition, monitoring and sustainable management.

Current Progress

The final 2 field workshops for the initial phase of the project were held in Victoria, at Euroa 3rd August and Boort on 4th August, 2002. The results of the national survey conducted in 2001-2 were analysed and reported to the AOA annual Conference in October, 2002. This season also saw the commencement of more detailed pest and disease monitoring in all southern mainland states, with 8 selected groves providing fortnightly deliveries of sticky and fruit fly trap catches and samples of leaves/twigs for identification and counting. To date, 131 samples have been received, with specimens obtained from traps and leaves/twigs/fruit identified for their pest or beneficial status. The identity and role of the most common microhymenoptera (very small wasps), however, requires specialist expertise. The most common and widespread insect pest in all states was black scale, which was frequently parasitised by the wasp Scutellista caerulea. Other common pests and damage recorded were oleander scale and red scale (Qld), Ross’s black scale (WA), olive lace bug (NSW, Qld), and weevils (WA, SA, Central NSW). A chart assisting in the identification of common pest, beneficial and other insects on yellow sticky traps is being compiled. A total of 64 samples have been diagnosed for disease this season. The most common plant pathogens detected were the fungi, Rhizoctonia and Macrophomina, that were found associated with root rots and dieback diseases. Some bacteria (Pseudomonas spp.) were also found associated with dieback diseases. Inoculations of isolates of these three organisms into healthy olive plants have been carried out to confirm their role as primary plant pathogens. Certain isolates of all three organisms have confirmed pathogenicity, while other isolates were unable to reproduce disease symptoms. There is evidence for an association between diseases caused by these organisms and certain plant stresses. For example, a dieback condition where we have isolated the bacterium, Pseudomonas syringae from affected stems, and cold or frost stresses. The fungus, Colletotrichum, was most commonly found associated with fruit rots, although many fruit samples appeared to be affected by disorders and unrelated to plant pathogens. Publications Spooner-Hart, R., Tesoriero, L., Hall, B., Page, F., Learmonth, S., Conlan, D. (2002)

Progress towards pest and disease management in Australian olive production.


Advances in Horticultural Science, 16 (3-4): 218-224 Botha, J., Taylor, D., Hardie, D., Spooner-Hart, R (2002) Olive lace bug Froggattia

olivinia Froggatt [Hemiptera: Tingidae]. Farmnote No. 050/2002. Department of Agriculture WA

Spooner-Hart R. (2002) Progress towards sustainable and organic pest and disease management in Australian olive production. Proceedings of the AOA Annual Conference, Adelaide, October 2002.


FRUIT, VEGETABLES AND NUTS

Project Title Investigation into commercial systems for production of capers in Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

CAU-1A

Start Date: 1-Jul-01 Finish Date: 30-Nov-04 Researcher: Mr. Jonathon Trewartha Organisation: Smart Enter Nominees Pty Ltd trading as "The Australian Caper Company"

PO Box 316 MANNUM SA 5238

Phone: 0414 989 107 Fax: -- Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To develop production systems for capers, a new crop to Australia. • To conduct field trials to answer simple questions about: varieties; phenology, plant

growth, and yield under Australian conditions; production systems that allow harvesting costs to be minimised.

• To develop a small commercial market for high quality capers in Australia by 2004.

Current Progress

In the production season, November 2002 to April 2003 caper buds were picked from 2 year old plants, with a mixed group of success both in the trial site and the rest of the field. The two major successes in the trial site were the continual use of organic principles to grow and the low usage of water on the plants. Organic fertilizer “Nuetrog - Rapid Raiser” was used and no pesticides or herbicides were applied this year. Cabbage Moth and White Caper Moth (an insect that has previously fed on indigenous caper plants) were controlled by destroying the eggs and caterpillars by hand as the caper buds were picked. One insect that as yet has not been identified did create noticeable damage to some of the plants. This season the plants have used very little water, as you would expect from a plant that can grow in the desert. Outside the trial site a group of plants were irrigated with high saline bore water and continued to grow strongly. This result using high saline water also correlates with overseas experience. Four varieties have been identified with-in the trial site compared with a planned two varieties, with five varieties found over the whole field. The variation from the plan was due to the difficulty in identifying varieties in the early stages of the project. The variation will create the benefit of comparing four varieties instead of two but with a smaller sample and an increase in data collecting and management. The success outside the trial site have been in trellising, developing a web page, creating a label and the salinity trials previously discussed. The trellising trials of several varieties have commenced with some promising results. A label has been developed and a web site “australiancapers.com.au” has been created with plans for regular updates. This coming season will be important in further understanding of the commercial viability of the caper plant.


Project Title Rambutan IPM Development Phase1: Insect Monitoring/Insecticide screening

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-274A

Start Date: 1-Sep-00 Finish Date: 30-Sep-03 Researcher: Mr. David Astridge Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Queensland Horticulture Institute Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture, Entomology PO Box 20 STH JOHNSTONE QLD 4859


• To reduce the frequency with which costly and environmentally threatening

insecticides are used in the production of ramutan and other exotic fruit by educating growers to identify and monitor major pest and beneficial insects, and only apply pesticides as required. Environmentally safe insecticides suitable for sustainable for sustainable pest management will also be screened to replace endosulfan and some organophosphates by 2003.

Current Progress

Lab bioassays have now been completed for citrus mealybug (Planococcus citri), fruit spotting bug (Amblypelta lutescens lutescens), red banded thrips (Selenothrips rubrocinctus), and two spotted mites (Tetranychus urticae) and black swarming leaf beetles (Rhyparida discpunctulata). Field trials evaluating insecticide efficacy have been completed on the most successful treatments screened from lab assays against black swarming leaf beetles and citrus mealy bugs. Pest population levels are continuing to be monitored over the growing season at 5 grower orchards sth of Tully to Daintree along the east coast of north Queensland to gather information on the seasonality of major insect pests in rambutan. This information will be used to develop an insect identification and monitoring poster, which will be used as a decision support system to assist growers with monitoring and controlling pest populations in rambutan orchards. Photos are being finalised for the rambutan pest poster. Development of the insect pest and monitoring poster has now commenced and a draft version should be ready to be presented to industry by the end of June. Workshops on the projects outcomes and on insect identification and monitoring have now been completed for the growers in the northern territory with further workshops for Qld growers to start after June.


Project Title Nutrition and phenology survey of durian and mangosteen orchards in north Queensland

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-288A

Start Date: 1-Dec-01 Finish Date: 1-Dec-04 Researcher: Mr. Yan Diczbalis Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)



• A survey of leaf and soil nutrition of durian and mangosteen orchards in the wet

tropics of north Queensland will:

* develop recommendations for a standard leaf sampling technique based on minimum coefficient of variation of samples. * develop recommendations for a desired nutrient range of durian and mangosteen trees grown in the wet tropics of north Queensland. * test for a relationship between tree nutrient status and productivity. * improve understanding of the effect of micro-climate within north Queensland on tree phenology. * develop industry awareness of the relationship between fertiliser inputs, tree nutrient status, tree phenology and yield.

Current Progress

The durian and mangosteen are tropical exotic fruits native to the wet tropics of SE Asia (Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo and Sumatra). The Australian durian and mangosteen industries are currently estimated to be valued at $0.3 M/annum and $0.6M/annum respectively. Current tree number, age and production statistics suggest that by 2010 these industries could achieve a value of $12.5 M and $8.2 M respectively. Twelve grower cooperators are involved in the Mangosteen nutrition and phenology survey. Six grower cooperators are involved in the Durian nutrition and phenology survey. Mangosteen sites extend from Daintree (16oS) to Murray Upper (18oS), while for durian sites extend from Daintree (16oS) to Innisfail (17oS). Tissue sampling occurs every two months and soil sampling at flowering and immediately post harvest. Five leaf tissue samples have been collected and analysed, the sixth one to be done in early June 2003. The third soil sample is currently being collected. Fruit samples were collected during the last season (April – May 2003) for analysis. The current collection of data on fertiliser inputs, tree yield and fruit analysis will allow the development of a nutrient budget. Leaf tissue and soil analysis data collected to date has been returned to growers and levels discussed in relation to limited overseas data and current tree performance. Weather stations are being maintained at a number of key sites.


Project Title Floral manipulation and canopy management in rambutan and longan

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-289A

Start Date: 1-Nov-01 Finish Date: 1-May-06 Researcher: Mr. Yan Diczbalis Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)



• Maximise production potential of rambutan and longan in a tropical environment

through the manipulation of flowering and canopy management.

Current Progress

Rambutan Six pruning sites have been established on commercial orchards in the Wet Tropics, from Daintree (16oS) to Murray Upper (18oS). At each of these sites two replicate trees are being pruned at 2 monthly intervals. The rate of flush development and the number of flushes required prior to flowering, for each pruning time, are being monitored. A chemical pruning trial (flush burning experiments) using a range of chemicals (Ethryl + urea, potassium sulphate, mono potassium phoshate, winter oil) has been conducted on five replicate trees at the Innisfail TAFE campus orchard. Results are currently being assessed. Grower pruning strategies are also being monitored and outcomes recorded. Longan The main thrust of the work in longan is concentrating on the use of Potassium Chlorate (KClO3) as a flower induction agent. Work is concentrated on examining the; method and time of application and mechanism of action. The work has shown that collar drenches, spot and partial root applications indicate that although effective at triggering flowering they are less effective than the same rates applied evenly over the root system. Foliar applications were effective at triggering flowering and only caused low rates of leaf drop (< 5%). In all methods panicles emerged 5-8 weeks after application. Control trees flowered to a lesser degree later and less uniformly. Experiments have indicated that KClO3 is effective at stimulating flowering at any time of the year but it tends to be more effective when applied during the normal flowering time.


Project Title Integrated management of Phytophthora diseases of durian RIRDC Project No.:

DNT-24A

Start Date: 1-Jul-98 Finish Date: 31-Dec-03 Researcher: Mr. Chris Wicks Organisation: Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT)

Horticulture Division Berrimah Agricultural Research Centre GPO Box 3000 DARWIN NT 0801


• To improve durian orchard establishment and sustainability, and the consistency of

quality fruit supplies to expanding markets by developing components of an integrated management program for pre-production and post harvest diseases caused by Phytophthora. This involves a thorough understanding of the pathogen-host-environment interactions to mitigate disease incidence and spread.

Current Progress

The fieldwork for this project will be finished in the next few months. Final data assessment and report writing has commenced. The ACIAR project, which this RIRDC project is collaborating with, had a very successful final meeting in Thailand in February 2003. At that meeting a great many findings were discussed involving Phytophthora in Durian and other tropical crops throughout Southeast Asia. This RIRDC project has made a number of interesting findings. These include the major finding that mulching and the use of organic fertilizers improve tree health and reduce Phytophthora incidence. It could be argued that modern farming practices hinder Durian development and encourage the incidence of Phytophthora. The final report for this project is due in December 2003. However the NT durian industry has already taken up the main findings of this work.


Project Title Increasing the productivity of truffieres in Tasmania RIRDC Project No.:

PTT-3A

Start Date: 1-Jul-00 Finish Date: 30-Jul-03 Researcher: Dr. Daryl Brown Organisation: Perigord Truffles of Tasmania

2/11 Lachlan Dr MT NELSON TAS 7007


• To increase the production per hectare of Tuber melanosporum by the following

means:

* Optimising soil pH through liming * Host selection and cloning * Investigating relationships between yield and other physical parameters of the truffieres * Improving tree growth rates through fertiliser management

Current Progress

The continued production of French truffles on existing and new truffières in the winter of 2002 has confirmed PTT’s success in achieving its goals. The company has confirmed its ability to transfer and apply the necessary technology and had its theories with respect to climate, geography and geology tested and confirmed. The truffle harvest in Tasmania in 2002 was frustrated by very unseasonal climatic conditions. Firstly, a very wet and cold spring in late 2001 and followed by in the many areas of Tasmania the mildest winter on record. Warm springs during the period of truffle initiation are important along with cold winters for the maturity of the truffles. French research and our observations in France and Tasmania indicate that unfavorable soil temperature conditions will delay the initiation of the truffle and cause problems with slow maturing truffles. PTT have initiated some further research into the effect soil temperature has on both the initiation of the truffles and the effect on maturity. Data loggers recording soil temperature have been placed in trufferies in Tasmania, Victoria and NSW along with producing trufferies in SE France. PTT’s expansion of its operation into the colder areas of Victoria and southern NSW has been successful. Trufferies have now been established in the Southern Highlands, Canberra, Orange and Tumbarumba areas in NSW. In Victoria sites have been established in the Yarra Valley and the Goldfields areas.


Project Title Myrtus ugni berries: market research RIRDC Project No.:

TMB-1A

Start Date: 1-Jul-02 Finish Date: 30-Jun-03 Researcher: Mr. John Bailey Organisation: Tas Myrtus Berries Pty Ltd

29 Davy Street HOBART TAS 7000

Phone: (03) 6223 5804 Fax: Email: [email protected] Objectives

• A firm indication of the demand for the fruit of myrtus ugni (abbrev. m.u.) especially

an understanding of taste preferences in Asian markets and an early indication of the requirements of a feasible storage and packaging protocol for export of berries.

Current Progress

The market segment envisaged for m.u. is restaurants and food companies – not the general public – as m.u. is not really a ‘table fruit’. Mr Bailey conducted tastings and cooking demonstrations for chefs of 5-star and 4-star restaurants and for food company representatives in Taipei, Taiwan and in Hong Kong. Afterwards, a total of 63 attendees then completed questionnaires. [Japan was not visited due to shortage of suitable berries.] Over 70% of respondents said that their customers would like m.u.. An ‘acceptable’ price of around $50/kg was indicated. Some recorded comments: – very good – like perfumed pears – excellent, fresh flavour – fruit fresh & unique. An estimate – believed to be highly conservative – of the annual demand in these two countries is in excess of 28,000 kg. Only 12% of respondents wanted a ‘more tart’ berry. Over half the respondents preferred the taste to remain ‘as is’, while one-third would prefer a ‘more sweet’ taste. Just on 60% of respondents were prepared to receive frozen or freeze dried berries. Dr Jobling of Sydney Postharvest Lab. observed that the relatively thick skins suggests a breathable punnet may suit for storing & transporting fresh berries. [Development of a definite protocol is now subject of an application for research in 2003-04.]


GRAINS AND PULSES

Project Title Investigation into legumes with pharmaceutical and aquaculture potential

RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-73A

Start Date: 1-Jul-02 Finish Date: 31-Jul-06 Researcher: Dr. Shao Fang Wang Organisation: University of Western Australia



• Develop a capacity for chemical analysis of legumes such that species from the unique

University of Western Australia genebank with valuable pharmaceutical or aquaculture benefit can be developed.

• Undertake chemical identification of isoflavonoids and bioactive compounds from legumes and asses their efficacy in mammalian breast/prostate cancer proliferation assays.

• Generate a basic knowledge of the chemistry of legume germplasms such that cultivars can be developed to suit specific industries.

• Develop cultivars for specific industries.

Current Progress

There is a large untapped potential for the utilisation of forage legumes as sources of protein (for aquaculture feed), dietary phytohormones and new drugs in industries other than mainstream agriculture. The aims are to develop a capacity for chemical analysis of legumes such that species with valuable pharmaceutical or aquaculture benefit can be developed. The project is progressing well. Chemical identification of isoflavonoids and bioactive compounds from legumes has been undertaken and their efficacy in mammalian breast cancer proliferation assays assessed. The project commenced in July 2002 with the growth of a targeted group of forage legumes for study of anticancer activities. Fifty alcoholic and aqueous extracts from pasture legumes and twenty-four alcoholic extracts from pulses were prepared for screening their efficacy in mammalian breast cancer proliferation assays. This method has been developed for assessing total extracts, fractions and pure compounds. A total of twenty-five alcoholic extracts showed anti-cancer activities. The toxicity of the most active fourteen extracts has undergone preliminary assessment in normal human breast cells. Using a bioassay-guided fractionation approach, identification of active anticancer active compounds from these active alcoholic extracts is underway. Thirty-four species and varieties of pasture legume seeds were identified that may suit the aquaculture feed phase of the project. The total protein contents of these legume seeds were measured with up to 40% of protein content for some seeds. Total lipid contents and fatty acid profiles from these seeds were determined. Additional chemical analyses of these seeds are being carried out.


MISCELLANEOUS

Project Title Second Australian New Crops Conference RIRDC Project No.:

UQ-104A

Start Date: 1-Jul-02 Finish Date: 30-Sep-05 Researcher: Dr. Rob Fletcher Organisation: The University of Queensland

School of Land and Food Gatton College LAWES QLD 4345


• The conference in September 2004 will provide an opportunity for those currently

engaged in new crops research, development and commercialisation in Australia to meet together to: * Review the latest developments in new crop commercialisation in Australia and throughout the world; * Investigate the benefits and opportunities for collaboration and cooperation; * Form new relationships and partnerships; * Identify new commercial initiatives, technology and processess; and * Enable those with a stake in the Australian new crops industry to plan their future more effectively.

Current Progress

The Second Australian New Crops Conference has been planned for the University of Queensland Gatton Campus from the evening of Tuesday 21 September until Friday 24 September 2004; prior satellite workshops are planned for Monday 20 and Tuesday 21 September 2004 and a New Crop Options Farmers’ Day will follow the conference and be held at a site on the Darling Downs on Saturday 25 September 2004. The conference is being held in association with the 10th Australasian Conference on Tree and Nut Crops (ACOTANC-2004). Initial planning meetings have been held between the (acting) Chairman of the Conference Organising Committee Dr Rob Fletcher and the Conference Organiser, Ms Sally Brown of Sally Brown Conference Connections, Brisbane and a preliminary indicative budget prepared. The Conference Organising Committee will include representatives from RIRDC, ACOTANC, state departments, new crop industries, new crop advisory firms, international colleagues and the University of Queensland. A Liaison Committee to provide an overview for planning and advice is also being formed from state departments of agriculture and international colleagues. The conference has been timed to coincide with: • The twenty second International Congress of Entomology in Brisbane in late August

2004; • A joint Australian (AuSHS)/New Zealand (NZSHS) Horticultural Society Conference

at the Hyatt Coolum in early September and • The Fourth International Crop Science Congress in Brisbane, which immediately

follows the Second Australian New Crops Conference.


Project Title Leguminous browse species as forage plants for temperate environments

RIRDC Project No.:

UT-25A

Start Date: 1-Oct-99 Finish Date: 31-Dec-03 Researcher: Dr. Peter Lane Organisation: University of Tasmania

Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural Research GPO Box 252-98 HOBART TAS 7001


• To evaluate a range of genotypes of three Dorycnium species for use as new forage

plants for the low to medium rainfall areas of temperate Australia by: 1. Identifying suitable strains of Rhizobia for effective nodulation of Dorycnium species. 2. Examining genotype-environment interactions across a range of climate and soil type conditions. 3. Determining forage yield, feed quality characteristics, seasonal growth rates, and response to grazing 4. Investigating aspects of nitrogen fixation and moisture stress in Dorycnium species.

Current Progress

Evaluation of strains of Rhizobia for inoculation of Dorycnium spp. based on glasshouse and field studies has been completed. Several strains have been identified that effectively nodulate Dorycnium spp. and persist and spread naturally in soils under field conditions. Estimates of efficiency of nitrogen fixation have also been determined. PCR analysis will be undertaken to confirm identity of field isolates. Seed production and germination studies have produced recommendations on optimum time of seed harvest, method of harvesting and seed pre-treatments to provide optimum germination performance under in vitro conditions. Sampling of shoot growth of established plants of Dorycnium spp. has been completed for determination of nutritive value and condensed tannin content. Overall findings have shown these leguminous browse plants are able to produce forage of acceptable feed quality for animal maintenance during summer and autumn under dryland conditions. This is of significance because pasture on offer at this time of the year is either of very poor quality or in short supply. Tannin analyses have not yet been completed. Collaborative work with the Western Australia Department of Agriculture has resulted in valuable information on the growth and yield of Dorycnium spp. in a Mediterranean environment.

Documents

NEW PLANT PRODUCTS - Agrifutures Australia€¦ · Dr. Ben Lethbridge (08) 8383 6181 Australian Quandong Industry Association 3 CLC-1A Cultivation and sustainable wild harvest of